Betula nigra 'Summer Cascade'

Betula nigra 'Summer Cascade' is a weeping river birch, valued for its elegant habit and cascading crown.

Characteristics
A medium sized tree with a pendulous, cascading form, usually reaching about 6-10 m in height and as much across, depending on the height at which it is grafted. The leaves are rhomboid to heart shaped, glossy dark green above and paler beneath, slightly toothed. The bark is light brown with darker streaks and peels in thin vertical strips, revealing pinkish inner bark, its most ornamental feature in winter.

Growing and care
Sun or light shade and fresh to moist soil: unlike most birches it thrives on damp, heavy ground and tolerates summer heat well, and it is resistant to bronze birch borer. Prune in late summer only to shorten and thin the trailing branches.

Uses
A striking specimen beside water, in lawns, in courtyards and contemporary gardens, and an excellent choice where a weeping tree is wanted on moist soil.