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Very similar to the common native River Birch, 'Dura-Heat' is a more heat tolerant and slightly smaller growing selection. Dura Heat is just as beautiful, fast growing, easy-to-grow, and thrives in sites with consistently moist soils  thrives in sites with consistently moist soil. Perhaps its most appealing and outstanding feature is the highly attractive salmon and cream tones of the shedding bark that provides year-round interest in the landscape, especially during the winter. The light to dark green diamond-shape leaves are about 4 inches long and wide, turning a nice yellow in fall before dropping to reveal the shedding bark. A graceful, soft-textured tree with disease and pest resistance and heat tolerance, Dura-Heat River Birch deserves a spot in every landscape where it will grow. USDA Zones 4a-9b 

Growing 30 to 40 feet tall and 25 to 35 feet wide, the Dura Heat River Birch tree is ideal for use as a specimen, in groupings or in single or staggered rows to delineate a property line or line a driveway. River Birch will tolerate dry periods but thrive in a consistently moist soil, which makes it a fine candidate for low-lying areas or next to lakes, streams, rivers or other bodies of water. Perfect for use as a shade tree, when planted on the west side of the home cooling costs will be reduced or needed shade during summer around outdoor living areas. A fine addition to native plant gardens and wildlife gardens.

Suggested Spacing:  15 to 20 feet apart for screen plantings; 50 feet apart for space between trees

Being a North American native tree, the River Birch is exceptionally easy to grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, and likes full sun to light shade. "River" in the name lets us know that it likes a consistently moist soil. That said, trees will tolerate dry periods. Maintenance is minimal. Pruning isn't necessary. That said, if you want to expose the trunk(s) lower branches can be removed to desired height. Avoid pruning in the spring when the tree is emerging from dormancy. Wait until May or June to prune.