Question
QUESTION: Would it be safe to plant a river birch tree within 3-6 feet of my asphalt driveway and my house's foundation? Thanks!

ANSWER: As far as the root system the root may not give you problems with the house foundation but will the asphalt drive. The main problem with planting this or any tree close to the drive or house will be the limbs. River birch has a width at maturity of about 20 feet and the limbs will hang over the dive scratching the car. The same goes for this close to the house the limbs will damage the house by rubbing on it when the wind blows. Need to plant at least 15 feet from the house OR use a dwarf version of river birch which has a spread of about 10 feet.

If you use a dwarf variety the tree will not grow large and you can plant near houses. One of these is

Betula nigra 'Little King' (Fox Valley)

This is a dwarf cultivar of the River Birch and relatively new. Only growing to 8'-10', it is a great tree for those that love river birch, but only have a small area in which to plant. Similar to the species in all other respects.


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QUESTION: What is a small flowering tree that you would recommend? Thanks!

Answer
Not knowing your location it will be hard to recommend a small flowering tree that may grow good there. Here are a few suggestions but I would ask your local tree nursery what they would recommend for your area and the space you have.

If you're looking for a small, deciduous flowering tree to plant in a small space, such as around patios, decks or entryways, here are a few to consider. The eastern redbud (Cerics canadensis) has red, pink or white flowers in early spring. Fringe tree (Chionanthus sp.) is a beautiful spring bloomer with lacy white flower clusters and yellow fall color. The hawthorns (Crataegus sp.) are a large family of small trees, most with white, pink or red spring flowers followed by red berries and bright fall color. Crape myrtles (Lagerstroemia indica) are summer blooming trees with white, pink, red or purple flowers. They also have yellow, orange or red fall color and very handsome bark. Flowering fruit trees (Prunus sp.) are another large group of spring flowering trees including purple-leaf plums and flowering cherries. They are available in many fruitless forms to prevent messes on patios or paving. All are easy to keep below 25 feet high. Check local adaptation with a trusted nursery before making a final decision.