Shrub Alnus serrulata [Hazel Alder] Closely related to Alnus rugosa, differing chiefly in its leaves, which are usually broadest above the middle and have the margins set with fine, nearly regular teeth. Multi-stemmed habit and tends to sucker.
Tree Betula albosinensis [Chinese Paper Birch] Betula albosinensis is a common tree in Europe but not often found here in the United States. It is considered by many to have the most handsome bark of any of the birches. The bark peels off in layers that have been likened to tissue paper. The straight species has bark that is pinkish-copper to orange-red to orange-brown with a white bloom.
Tree Indiana Native Betula alleghaniensis [Yellow Birch] Graceful tree, interesting for its shining bark beginning yellowish or bronze and exfoliating in thin shreds, becoming reddish brown until finally forming blackish-brown plates. Especially well adapted to wet soils. Does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest.
Tree Betula × 'Crimson Frost' [Crimson Frost Birch] This hybrid birch is very closely related to Betula platyphylla in form and care, with the exception of its striking red-purple leaves. It is a graceful tree, interesting for its pure white bark that contrasts nicely with the dark foliage. The Crimson Frost Birch is especially well adapted to wet soils, and does not do well in dry situations. Less subject to the borer troubles of B. papyrifera in the Midwest, although still susceptible.
Tree Indiana Native Betula nigra [River Birch] Graceful tree, interesting for its curling bark, and especially well adapted to wet soils. Immune to the bronze birch borer, which is a serious problem for the native Betula papyrifera in the Midwest. This species prefers full sun and is quite heat tolerant, but does not have tolerance for drought. If pruning is required, prune in summer or during the dormant season.
Tree Betula nigra 'Cully' [sold as Heritage™] [Heritage River Birch] This vigorous cultivar makes a graceful tree, interesting for its richly colored, strongly curling bark and large, glossy leaves. It is somewhat resistant to leaf spot and is especially well adapted to wet soils. Immune to the bronze birch borer, which is a serious problem for the native Betula papyrifera in the Midwest. This species prefers full sun and is quite heat tolerant, but does not have tolerance for drought. If pruning is required, prune…
Tree Betula papyrifera 'Renci' [sold as Renaissance Reflection®] [Renaissance Reflection Paper Birch] Betula papyrifera 'Renci' is faster growing and more heat resistant than the straight species. This tree requires full sun and is not suitable for poor or polluted city conditions.
Tree Betula papyrifera 'Uenci' [sold as Renaissance Upright™] [Renaissance Upright Paper Birch] Betula papyrifera 'Uenci' is narrow and pyramidal in form and with a strong central leader. This tree performs best in colder climates, requires full sun, and is not suitable for poor or polluted city conditions.
Tree Betula 'Penci 2' [sold as Royal Frost®] [Royal Frost Birch] A hybrid between Betula populifolia 'Whitespire' and Betula 'Crimson Frost', popular for its colorful foliage that is red/purple spring and summer and yellow/orange in the fall, and its interesting bark characteristics.
Tree Betula pendula [European White Birch] A graceful tree with beautiful white bark and pendulous branches, the European White Birch was once a common tree in many landscapes across the United States. However, the popularity of this species has decreased rapidly due to its extreme susceptibility to the birch borer. Despite its beautiful aesthetics, other birch species, such as Betula nigra (the River Birch), are recommened for use in the landscape instead.
