A species of birch native to the Eastern United States. Betula nigra is a deciduous tree growing to 25–30 meters (80–100 ft) with a trunk 50 to 150 centimeters (20 to 60 in) in diameter. The base of the tree is often divided into multiple slender trunks. The bark can be described as having loose layers of curling, paper thin scales. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green in color, while the underside can be described as having a light yellow-green color. The leaves turn yellow in Autumn.

As the species occurs predominately in flood plains and along stream banks, it is described as being moderately tolerant of flooding. Betula nigra is intolerant of shade.

Deer have been known to graze on saplings or reachable branches. Betula nigra is a larval host for over fifteen moth species.