Tree Bark

There are many features to consider when planting a tree, which is a blog post in and of itself. However, Winter has me thinking of one specific set of features often overlooked when trees are adorned  with their seasonal outfits. We typically focus primarily on leaves and fall color and perhaps shape. Let’s take a look at tree structure and bark for a moment. 

 As an Arborist and certified tree nerd some of my favorite tree features are twig and limb structure, as well as bark texture and color. I would encourage you,  if a casual observer of trees, to allow your gaze to  linger as you inspect these characteristics of the largest landscape plants. If you are looking for a tree to plant especially if it will be a feature plant outside of a viewing window or in a place of prominence in an outdoor space a tree with a pronounced bark feature is a huge plus. This would give you four seasons of interest .

Let’s look at a few trees that are beautiful beneath their leaves. One tree that immediately comes to mind are the Beech trees. American and European Beech Both have a glorious silver bark which stands out even as you drive by a stand of woods where they are present. That bark resembles skin. Perhaps the skin of an Elephant? The root flares of large Beech trees can look like an Elephants foot. I also think their twigs are nice as well . They are finely cut and interesting. Next we have the Paperbark maple. This tree is in possession of a crimson or Mahogany colored bark that peels. The color and the peeling bark , sort of like Birch, make for an outstanding feature plant that is unique to view . There are several trees varying in size and habit that possess a mottled or camouflaged bark. The American Sycamore,London Plane, Lacebark Elm and the Korean Dogwood all have extremely cool bark and present multiple color shades  at the same time. As the trees mature and grow these features change and morph which only adds to the interest . The Black Gum is a plant indigenous to our area and as the tree matures the bark gets interesting and the twigs are finely cut and wispy. These trees also produces fruit that wildlife will enjoy.

 These are just a few trees that stand out to me as I contemplate again what winter will bring . Instead of thinking bleak ,gray , and cold look beyond and see the wonder of the season. It takes many forms and is certainly not limited to trees. Keep in mind if you find yourself smitten with one of these amazing plants check the site requirements to make sure they are a good fit for your landscape!