May's tree of the month is river birch, or Betula nigra. This deciduous tree is common throughout Missouri and is good for Kansas City urban landscaping and erosion control, according to The Missouri Department of Conservation. Because the river birch does well in moist ground, along streams and gravel bars, it can also be found in Kansas and other areas.
Here's an interesting side note: Some Native Americans and European settlers made birch beer by boiling down the sap and adding honey, then fermenting.
The river birch has an attractive pinkish peeling bark, has creamy-colored blooms in early spring, and grows quickly.
Does your river birch or landscaping need trimming, pruning, or health care? Contact Cartwright Tree Care in Missouri and Kansas. Online at www.cartwrighttree.com or call 816-965-6758.
