Betula occidentalis, commonly known as water birch, is a shrubby tree of riparian woodlands that is most commonly found growing in clumps or thickets along rivers, streams, springs or other water courses. Non-peeling bark is shiny, reddish-brown and marked with white horizontal streaks. Alternate, deciduous, broad-ovate leaves that are dark greenish-yellow and shiny on top. Bloom Description: Brown (male) and green (female)