Betula nigra 'Little King'

Fox Valley® Dwarf River Birch

Deciduous Tree

A compact river birch featuring captivating exfoliating bark, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or limited spaces. It boasts strong resistance to pests and diseases, along with heat tolerance. This dwarf variety is perfect for low-maintenance landscapes, serving as a striking accent or forming natural hedges or screens when planted in groups. With a deciduous nature, it grows moderately and reaches a height and width of 8 to 10 feet in a decade. Plant this versatile small tree for a miniature version of the popular landscape tree, especially where the textured bark's colorful patterns, ranging from cinnamon-red to pale salmon, can be appreciated. Notably, Betula nigra 'Little King' is said to not produce catkins (flowers), distinguishing it from typical birch trees.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun

Water Needs: Regular / Even

Description

Size: - tall x - wide
Shape / Form: Upright, Vase
Foliage Texture: Medium
Foliage Quality: Medium

Features: Attractive Bark or Stem, Dwarf / Compact Plant, Exfoliating Bark, Low Maintenance, Winter Interest, Year-round Interest

Foliage Color: Green
Fall Color: Yellow / Gold




Fruit Description: Tan

Uses and Applications

Landscape Uses: Mixed Border, Small Gardens, Specimen, Street Tree
Special Situations: Courtyard / Urban Garden, Deer Resistant, Wet Soil Tolerant
Wildlife: Deer Resistant

More Design Considerations

Season of Interest: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Year-round Interest
Position / Role: canopy

Care and Maintenance

Maintenance Level: low

Plant Combos