Water Birch Betula nigra 'Shiloh Splash' (PP16,362)

Discovered by John and Danny Allen at Shiloh Nursery, ‘Shiloh Splash’ river birch is a variegated cultivar of river birch that has utility as a shrub or small tree in the landscape. Well mannered, Shiloh Splash will grow to be about 10-15 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8-10 feet. With their pretty, papery, tan and peach bark, River Birches are wonderful winter interest trees, but here's one that delights in the summertime, as well. 'Shiloh Splash' River Birch features green leaves that appear to have had their margins dunked in creamy-white paint. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground.  Propagation studies found that this cultivar roots readily from terminal, softwood cuttings (taken in mid-July) with optimal treatments consisting of basal dips of 2,000 – 4,000 ppm of either KIBA or IBA in 50% isopropyl alcohol. It can be expected to live up to 70 years.

Site: River birches are extremely adaptable and tolerates a wide range of growing conditions including high temperatures and wet soils. Easily grown average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. River birch is perhaps the most culturally adaptable and heat tolerant of the birches. Prefers moist, acidic, fertile soils including semi-aquatic conditions, but also tolerates drier soils. Consider using soaker hoses and bark mulches to keep the root zones cool and moist. Adapts well to heavy clay soils and will tolerate poor drainage. Avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running.

Seasons of Interest: 

    Foliage: Variegated, Fall-yellow  Bark: Winter

Insects, Diseases and Other Problems:  Our native river birch is one of the most popular trees for southern nurseries and landscapes. It is utilized extensively due to its attractive ornamental features, excellent adaptability (tolerance to heat and clay soils), and it is one of the only birch species with resistance to bronze birch borer. Susceptible to chlorosis in alkaline soils.