Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’ – A Striking Variegated River Birch
Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’ is an eye-catching deciduous tree admired for its dramatic variegated foliage and distinctive exfoliating bark. The fresh green leaves are irregularly splashed with creamy white, creating a unique, marbled appearance throughout the growing season. In spring, soft catkins appear, adding seasonal interest, while the beautiful cinnamon-brown peeling bark provides texture and character year-round. In autumn, the foliage turns warm yellow tones before falling, revealing the sculptural branching structure.
Elegant yet resilient, this river birch variety makes a stunning specimen tree for gardens and landscapes, combining ornamental beauty with strong seasonal interest.
Why Grow Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’?
Unique Variegated Foliage – Cream and green splashed leaves create a striking visual effect.
Decorative Bark – Exfoliating cinnamon-brown bark adds year-round interest.
Seasonal Appeal – Spring catkins, summer foliage, autumn colour, and winter structure.
Hardy and Adaptable – Tolerates wet soils, heat, and urban conditions.
Excellent Specimen Tree – Ideal as a focal point in lawns and larger borders.
Height and Spread
Typically reaches 8–12m (26–40ft) in height with a spread of 5–8m (16–26ft) at maturity.
Where to Site Your Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’
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Specimen Planting: Ideal as a standalone feature
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Lawns and Open Spaces: Allows full appreciation of bark and foliage
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Near Water Features: Thrives in moist conditions
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Large Borders: Adds height and structure
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Urban Gardens: Tolerant of pollution and compacted soils
How to Grow and Care
Soil – Prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soil but tolerates heavy and wet soils.
Light – Full sun to partial shade; best foliage colour in good light.
Watering – Water regularly during establishment; enjoys consistently moist soil.
Maintenance
Pruning – Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged branches in late summer.
Mulching – Mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil health.
Pests & Diseases – Generally resistant and trouble-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Underplanting: Ferns, hostas, and shade perennials
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Shrubs: Cornus, Hydrangea, or Viburnum
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Grasses: Carex or Hakonechloa
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Naturalistic Planting: Ideal for woodland-style gardens
Conclusion
Betula nigra ‘Shiloh Splash’ is a striking variegated river birch offering dramatic foliage, beautiful peeling bark, and strong year-round interest. Perfect as a specimen tree, it brings elegance, structure, and visual impact to both gardens and landscapes.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.