Choosing the Right Birch for Georgia: River Birch Varieties

Most birches struggle in Georgia's heat and clay, but river birch (Betula nigra) thrives. It loves sun, grows fast, and has beautiful exfoliating bark. Seek these cultivars:

• 'Heritage' – superior bark color, heat tolerance. Verify authenticity; many sold as 'Heritage' are common seedlings.
• 'Dura-Heat' – another excellent, heat-tolerant selection.

Buy from a reputable grower who can guarantee the cultivar. Avoid paper birch, European white birch, and other cool-climate species.