There is nothing more beautiful in winter than white barked trees. Their white bark contrasts with the barren garden, emitting a radiant glow that brightens any space. An orange and red garden with green leaves and stems, paired with white barked trees, stands out. It doesn’t matter whether you plant a single tree or several, you’ll love their vibrant colors and textures, no matter what backyard ideas you have.
A white barked tree is a striking addition to a yard or landscape. White barked trees were previously uncommon, but they can now be found in abundance. Shelby DeVore, the founder of Farminence, explains, ‘White barked trees always catch the eye when scanning a treeline.
White barked tree
When choosing the right white-barked trees for your garden, there are so many options to consider. Choose the spot or spots on your plot where you want to grow white barked trees. What tree will grow well on your plot will depend on its location and conditions.
When choosing trees for privacy or screening, you must also consider the number of trees needed, the distance between them, and where they need to be planted. The next step is to choose your tree. When researching white barked trees, keep in mind your garden soil type and the growing zone in which you live.
The white birch tree
Paper Birch trees can be found throughout North America, including Canada and New England. The bark of this tree was once used to make canoes by Native Americans. It was called Paper Birch because its bark peels off in thin, papery layers. It derives its Latin name from the ‘papyrifera’ part of its Latin name.
Himalayan Birch
This maple is probably the most striking variety of maple because it has a white bark, which peels off naturally into thin, paper-like layers as it ages. In moist, well-drained soils, the plant can grow up to 30 feet tall.
American Aspen Tree
American Aspens are the most photographed trees in Canada, New England, and the Rocky Mountains without a doubt. The white bark contrasts sharply with the dark undergrowth, which is slender and tall. When the Aspens turn to gold and shimmer in the breeze in the fall, they produce spectacular displays. Petioles (the stalks that attach the leaf to the stem) on this tree are flexible, causing the leaves to tremble even in the slightest breeze.
Identifying an Aspen from a Birch
Aspen and Birch grow in the same area, so it is easy to confuse them. Here are two ways to tell them apart.
- There are many differences between the leaves of Birch and Populus species.
- A characteristic of American Aspens is their trembling or shivering leaves at even the slightest air movement. In addition to what the two trees do when they are exposed to wind, this is another clue. In a light breeze, birch trees are more resistant to trembling.
White Poplar
The Silver Poplar, also known as the Silverleaf Poplar, boasts a distinctive trunk. Its bark is dark, diamond-shaped, and varies from greenish-white to grayish-white. If you plan to plant this tree, be aware of its potential risks, as it has invasive characteristics.
Eucalyptus pauciflora niphophila
This tree thrives in most soil types thanks to its peeling, creamy-colored bark, silvery gray leaves, and white flowers in the summer. Having an upright shape and not growing too tall, it is one of the best trees for small gardens. Because it dislikes being disturbed, it could be risky to change your mind and move it at a later date if it dislikes it. In the first couple of years, it needs to be kept well-watered and weed-free. After that, it’s low maintenance.
What makes white barked trees so popular?
In a garden, white barked trees contrast beautifully with the vibrant colors of flowers and foliage. In woodland shadows, White Birch trunks and branches stand out strongly. There is something magical about white trees. It is rare to find bark that is truly white in nature. If viewed in a lonely place or under a special light, a white tree can have mystical overtones. The whiteness of a white tree can be downright eerie in some settings. Others may be overwhelmed by the beauty.
