Common Name: Heritage River Birch, River Birch
Betula nigra ‘Cully’ (HERITAGEŽ) — commonly called Heritage River Birch — is a superior selection of native river birch prized for its lighter, cream-to-salmon exfoliating bark, improved uniformity, and excellent heat tolerance. Compared with the straight species, ‘Cully’ shows cleaner bark color and a more refined habit, making it one of the most widely planted river birches in landscapes. Key features Width / spread: 30–40 ft Height: 40–50 ft (occasionally taller with age) Bark: Exfoliating; creamy white, tan, and salmon tones Foliage: Glossy medium green; yellow fall color Form: Upright pyramidal to oval; single-stem or multi-stem Life cycle: Deciduous tree Growing conditions Sun: Full sun to part shade Soil: Moist to wet, well-drained; tolerates clay and heavier soils Water: Moderate to high; excellent tolerance of wet sites Hardiness: Zone Low: 4a Zone High: 9a Landscape use Specimen tree Street and park plantings Rain gardens and low sites Large residential and commercial landscapes Group plantings for bark contrast Notes Cleaner, lighter bark than standard river birch Excellent resistance to bronze birch borer Performs well in heat and humidity Fast growth rate; allow space to mature Minimal pruning; prune only during dormancy if needed
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree |
| Width: | 25-30' |
| Height: | 40-50' |
| Fragrant: | No |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Zone: | 4 - 9 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Exposure: | Full sun to part shade |
| Bloom Time: | Spring |
| Bark Type: | Exfoliating |
| Landscape/Use: | Specimen, Accent Plant |
| Shape: | Clump, Upright |
| Soil Type | Clay, Normal, Loamy, Heavy |
| Flower Color: | Yellow, Brown |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Yellow |