A large tree, the river birch grows to heights of 40 to 60 feet. When mature, it has an oval, rounded habit and is a good choice for large areas. The flowers are not very showy; brown catkins (male flowers) release their pollen in early spring. The bark is quite handsome; it exfoliates to reveal shades from grayish-brown to cinnamon-brown inner bark. The river birch has gained considerable popularity because it is not susceptible to the bronze birch borer and is one of the most adaptable birches.

The primary ornamental feature of birch trees is the bark. Many of the common names of birch trees refer to the color of the bark -- white, gray, yellow or red. Another signature bark characteristic is its habit of separating into thin sheets; Native Americans used this property to harvest the bark from fallen paperbark birch trees to make canoes, bowls and shelter -- practical as well as beautiful. A strong secondary ornamental feature is the usually colorful golden fall foliage. Given their preference for cool weather and acid soil and their susceptibility to bronze birch borer infestations, birch trees can be challenging to cultivate in the Chicago region.

The genus Betula includes an indeterminate number of species of the birch tree; estimates range from 30-60. They are native to the cooler, temperate and sub-polar regions of Asia, Europe and North America -- generally preferring long cold winters and short mild summers. The Chicago Botanic Garden's collection contains more than 40 varieties among its more than 500 birch trees.