Even if you are not familiar with the water birch (Betula occidentalis), you can guess that this tree tolerates wet soil. And this is absolutely true. Birch trees generally value moist soil, and water birch trees take it a step further.
But there is a lot to learn about the common red birch tree. More interesting information about the water birch is provided in the following paragraphs.
Meet the Red Birch Tree
Water birch is also known as red birch, river birch and western birch. Its natural range extends from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains. Red birch prefers to grow in riverbanks and lowlands along riverbanks.
Betula occidentalis is a relatively small, gnarled tree with multiple trunks, not very thick in diameter. These water birch trees are about 24 feet (8 m) tall.
Water Birch Facts
Deciduous water birch trees shed their leaves in the winter. When they are young, they usually have a straight growth shape. As they mature, the branches begin to drop. The twigs grow reddish, known as "red birch".
The bark of the red birch tree is shiny and thin. The leaves are small and serrated around the edges, dull green above and duller below. In fall, the leaves turn a bright canary yellow and can be seen from miles away. They produce both males and females, with the males being twice as long as the hanging females.
HydrGrowing a Water Birch Tree
If you are considering planting a hydroponic birch, don't worry if you are in a cold climate. The tree is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zone 2. Water birch prefers a location with plenty of sun and moist, well-drained soil.
The water birch plant is commonly found in forests that grow along rivers, streams, springs, or other waterways. If you plan to plant this birch tree, consider using a soaker hose to keep the soil moist. Mulching the bark over the soil is also a good idea.
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