Betula nigra

The Black Birch, or River Birch, is a hardy fast-growing, deciduous tree with a conical habit and shaggy bark, peeling in layers. The bark appears blackish or grey-white and ridged on old trees, and diamond-shaped, glossy green leaves turn yellow in autumn; yellow-brown male catkins to 8cm long in early spring.

Ultimate height : more than 12m in 20-50 years
Ultimate spread : 4-8m
Grows in chalk, sand and clay, moist but well-drained soil
Position : Full sun or partial shade, any aspect