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Trees with white bark and red leaves


Trees with white bark: 10 varieties to bring contrast

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Trees with white bark are a beautiful addition to the garden at any time of year, however, it is in winter when they truly come alive. Set against the barren garden, the white bark becomes almost translucent, radiating a glow that will brighten every plot. 

Standing in stark contrast to the greens and browns that define the garden's color palette, trees with white bark particularly pop when paired with plants with red and orange leaves and stems. So, whether you plant one statement tree or incorporate several into your backyard ideas, you will fall in love with the interesting colors and textures that they bring.

'Trees with white bark are less common than trees with dark bark, but they can be a stunning addition to a yard or landscape. When you scan a treeline, white bark trees always grab your attention,' says Shelby DeVore, the founder of Farminence .

Trees with white bark

With so many different options from which to choose, selecting the right trees with white bark for your garden can seem like a daunting prospect.  

Before choosing a tree, pick the spot or spots where you want to grow trees with white bark. The location and conditions of the site will influence which tree will grow best in your plot. If you are looking for trees for privacy and screening, then also factor in how many trees are required, the distance needed between them, and where they need to be placed to offer privacy.

Having chosen your spot, then you can choose your tree. Be sure to take into account your gardens soil type and the growing zone in which you live when researching trees with white bark.

Once you've picked your tree and it's arrived at your home, you need to plant it. To do this, it is vital that you know how to plant a tree as this will give your new garden addition the greatest chance of success. 

'Plant trees with white bark in front of evergreens to show off their statement bark. Grow white flowered shrubs, perennials and annuals to echo the bark – repeating the color from one plant or item to another helps provide balance and unity in the landscape,' advises arborist Melinda Myers .

1. Snakebark Maple (Acer tegmentosum 'White Tigress')

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If you're looking for striking trees with white bark then Snake Bark maple trees are a must have addition that brings both color and texture to your garden.

A variety of acer, these Japanese maple trees are characterised by the veining that runs the length of their trunks. There are several different varieties including Acer tegmentosum 'White Tigress' and Acer davidii 'Viper', both of which are characterised by green and silvery-white striated bark.

Another benefit of these pretty trees are that they are one of the easiest trees with white bark to grow, so long as they are planted in a sheltered spot with partial shade.

2. Weeping cherry tree (Prunus pendula)

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There is never a time of year when the weeping cherry is not putting on a show. In spring, it hosts a profusion of pink blossoms, in summer its dark green leaves shine in the sunlight and throughout fall and winter, its captivating white bark offers a centerpiece to a winter garden.

Easy to care for 'its drooping branches do not require pruning and will grow up to 25 feet high and 12 feet wide,' says Lindsey Hyland, gardening expert and founder of Urban Organic Yield . As well as it's pretty white bark, the weeping cherry is also one of our favorite trees with red berries, producing a fruit that is great for feeding birds in winter.

3. Japanese White Birch (Betula platyphylla var. japonica)

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Birch trees are the most iconic trees with white bark, and while we all instantly think of the Silver Birch or the Paper Bark birch, there are actually numerous different varieties all offering their own unique colors and textures. One such tree is the Japanese White Birch.

As its name suggests, the Japanese White birch is native to Japan and is surprisingly hardy, thriving in growing zones 3 to 8. It will do best in well-drained soil in a spot that receives full-sun and a little shade in the afternoon and in ideal conditions it can reach up to 50 feet tall.  

When growing trees with white bark, also think about the plants with which you are surrounding your tree. Trees with white bark always pop against red, so why not set your birch tree against red maple trees or surround them with fiery red cornus for an eye-catching display that will ignite your winter garden ideas.

4. Ghost gum (Corymbia aparrerinja)

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If you live in warmer climes, namely zones 9 and 10, then the Ghost gum is a great choice. 'It's a very tough and hardy plant that's well-suited to coastal areas. It's resistant to drought, pests, diseases, and other issues that can be detrimental to less hardy landscaping trees,' says Shelby DeVore.

Native to Australia, the Ghost gum gets its name from its striking white trunk which gives the tree an almost ghostly appearance. However, its white bark isn't the only thing that makes this tree a characterful addition to the garden. 

Offering year round interest its one of the best evergreen trees for gardens as 'when the tree is hit with frost, its deep green, waxy leaves turn a deep purple,' continues Shelby, 'the tree also blooms late in the fall, when most other plants are settling in for the winter. '

5. Aspen (Populus tremula)

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The American aspen is known by many names including the quaking aspen or trembling aspen. Regardless of what you call it, everyone can agree that this tree is a beautiful addition to the backyard. 

However, it is in fall that these trees with white bark really earn their place in the garden landscape. As the weather starts to turn, their green leaves ignite in a flurry of yellow and orange, providing a stark contrast to the white bark below. It is this stunning display that makes them one of the best trees for autumn color.

However, the American aspen's beauty comes at a price as this tree requires very specific conditions in order to thrive. 'It grows best at high elevations (over 2,000 feet), and can't tolerate summer temperatures over 85 degrees. It's a great option for people living in mountain terrain looking for a special tree to add to the landscape,' says Shelby DeVore 'Their tall, narrow shape won't provide much shade but lining them up and creating a border or treeline is very appealing. In ideal conditions, these trees are fast-growing and can grow up to four feet each year.'

6. River Birch (Betula nigra)

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A unique tree in the garden, the River Birch offers a fascinating combination of texture and color. 'With its showy cinnamon colored bark that peels off to reveal shades of creamy white and beige, it's not hard to see why birch trees are loved by home gardeners,' says Nikki McAteer from Perfect Plants Nursery .

As an American native, the River Birch is a great addition to the garden and one that supports wildlife and natural ecosystems, offering a place for nesting birds and insects alike. Its fast growth rate makes it one of the best trees for privacy and screening in a backyard, too. 

7. Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

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Not all trees with white bark have the same snowy complexion as the birches and aspen. The white bark of the sycamore is uniquely patterned, offering a camouflage mix of whites and greens that bring instant character to the garden.  

'An American native, the Sycamore's upper branches will turn very light green, almost white as the tree grows,' says Blythe Yost, CEO of the online landscape design company Tilly , 'Sycamores like wet soils and can be found often on river banks'.

8. Himalayan Birch (Betula utilis jacquemontii)

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If you're looking for the birch trees with the whitest bark, then the Himalayan birch is the tree for you. As its name suggests it is native to the Himalayas and its snowy white bark peels back each year to reveal the new layer below. While this new bark starts off yellowy, it ages to become a show-stopping white color.

9. Silver Birch (Betula pendula)

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp)

If you're looking for the most versatile of the trees with white bark, then the silver birch tree is your best option. 

'A great choice for both large and small gardens, silver birch trees are tolerant of most conditions and does best in a moist soil,' says Period Living's garden expert Leigh Clapp.  When young, the trees bark appears redder, slowly peeling off and changing to the classic white as the tree matures.

Silver birch trees are also some of the best trees to grow in pots as the container stunts the trees growth, resulting in a perfectly formed yet smaller variety. These are perfect for adding shade and screening to a patio. However, if growing a silver birches in pots, then it is important to keep them well watered as they are very thirsty plants.

10. Paper Bark Birch (Betula papyrifera)

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A native tree, the paper birch is a popular choice for homeowners looking for trees with white bark to add to their garden. Growing moderately fast (up to 2 feet per year) and reaching 70 feet at maturity, it is a great choice if you are looking for best trees for privacy and screening. 

'This tree is also brilliant for gardeners who are interested in encouraging wildlife into the gardens as the paper birch will provide food and habitat for numerous species of birds, moose, white-tailed deer, and small mammals,' says Shelby.

Why are some trees white?

Some trees are white because they have naturally white bark. The white color helps to protect the tree against damage from the sun by reflecting the light rather than absorbing it and its heat. 

However, some trees are white because they have been painted white. Far from being an aesthetic choice, painting trees white is actually very beneficial to the tree for much the same reason that trees have naturally white bark. The white paint helps to reflect the sunlight and heat and thus keep the tree cooler and reduce the effects of sun damage.

Painting trees is a particularly popular practice in areas with high temperatures and high UV-indices. If you are painting your trees, it is important to use a white latex rather than oil-based paint, as an oil-based paint will cause more harm than good. 

What trees have white bark?

The weeping cherry tree, Japanese white birch, gum trees, Himalayan birch, Paper Bark birch and Aspen are all trees that have white bark. All of these trees have the classic white trunk that appears to glow in the sunlight and catches the eye on a frosty morning.

Another tree with white bark is the silver poplar, which is also called the white poplar. 'Frequently used in landscaping, white poplars are not a good choice for the garden,' says Shelby DeVore. 'They are an invasive species and in numerous states.  In fact, it's illegal to possess or own them. Silver poplars are notorious for spreading and creating invasive colonies.  The aggressive way that they reproduce and their fast growth rate means that they often out-compete native trees and become a nuisance plant.' Therefore, it is best to avoid planting silver or white poplar trees in your garden.

Having graduated with a first class degree in English Literature four years ago, Holly started her career as a features writer and sub-editor at Period Living magazine, Homes & Gardens' sister title. Working on Period Living brought with it insight into the complexities of owning and caring for period homes, from interior decorating through to choosing the right windows and the challenges of extending. This has led to a passion for traditional interiors, particularly the country-look. Writing for the Homes & Gardens website as a content editor, alongside regular features for Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors magazines, has enabled her to broaden her writing to incorporate her interests in gardening, wildlife and nature. 

The 6 Best White Bark Trees That Look Great All Year

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Often, trees are selected and grown for their foliage, fruit, or flowers—seasonal features that blossom and fade over several months. However, it’s not impossible to find deciduous trees (those with leaves that drop over the winter) capable of delivering beauty year-round. The key is to narrow your search to trees with white bark. Even in winter months, when barren, uniquely alabaster branches offer a striking contrast against dark siding, a backdrop of evergreens, or even against the winter sky.

While trees with white bark are not rare, they’re not as common as other trees for two reasons: Certain varieties require particular growing climates, while others are subject to disease and insect infestation. Before choosing a tree, make sure it’s suitable for your geographic region by consulting the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which indicates the coldest average winter temperatures by region.

Keep in mind that some white trees have additional geographical requirements on top of hardiness zones, such as altitude limitations, so do your homework to determine which trees to grow and which trees to avoid. The following six types of trees are among those most commonly chosen for the beauty of their white bark.

The 6 Best Trees with White Bark

While their growing ranges are limited in scope, the following trees thrive in specific regions and under particular growing conditions. Planting a white bark tree will add visual interest to the landscape and help increase the property’s value.

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1. Himalayan Birch (Betula utilis)

You may be familiar with some species of birch that have beige or brown bark, but a select few species of Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) feature creamy white trunks and limbs. Native to the Himalayan region, these birch trees prefer cool, well-drained soil and full-to-partial sun exposure. These birch varieties grow best in zones 1 through 7, although areas where summer temps regularly exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental to their growth. If you live in northern areas of the contiguous United States, Canada, or Alaska, check out the following trees with white bark—though very similar, each has a few unique qualities.

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While the trees, themselves, love full sun, the ground around their roots should be shaded. This can be accomplished by adding a layer of hardwood bark mulch around the trunk. Additionally, Himalayan birch trees are prone to infestation by sawflies and aphids, and they can develop diseases, such as rust and leaf spot. For the best results, have the tree checked annually by a tree professional (arborist) and treated as necessary to keep it in top health.

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2. American Aspen (Populus tremuloides)

For fans of colorful autumn foliage, nothing beats the brilliant gold and orange show put on by a grove of Aspen trees on the side of a forested mountain. The American Aspen (Populus tremuloides), also known as “quaking aspen” or “trembling aspen,” produces a smooth–bark white tree trunk that can reach 80 feet at maturity with a narrow crown spread of only 20 feet. American Aspen’s striking white bark will develop contrasting black markings as it matures, which add to its visual interest. In optimal conditions, American Aspen is a quick grower, growing as much as four feet per year.

This soaring tree grows best in zones 2 through 7, and while it likes full sun, it doesn’t care for summer temperatures that regularly exceed 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It also will not abide low elevations: American Aspen rarely grows at elevations less than 2,000 feet, and grows best at elevations between 5,000 to 12,000 feet. By entering your city and state on this interactive elevation map, you can determine if an American Aspen is suitable for your area. (Bonus points if you’re in the right elevation range and located near banks and streams, as these trees with white bark thrive with plenty of water and well-drained soil. )

With its tall, lean stature, American Aspen is well-suited to growing in clumps, and when planted three to five inches apart will produce a multi-trunk effect. It’s just as attractive when planted individually along fences and property lines, or anywhere else a statuesque border is desired. Aspens spread by root shoots, so a few clumps of aspen could become a spectacular grove in 15 to 20 years.

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3. American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

Reaching an average height of 100 feet at maturity with a similarly wide crown spread, the white bark American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) is a dramatic addition to a large landscape. It grows well in zones 4 through 9, averaging two to two-and-a-half feet of growth per year. It produces insignificant yellow-red flowers in spring that give way to large green leaves (up to nine inches wide) in summer. Brownish non-edible fruit balls develop in summer and eventually dry out, bursting open to release downy seeds. Its mottled white bark, which starts out brown and turns creamy white after 10 to 12 years, makes it a favorite in the winter landscape.

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Due to its large size—the average mature trunk measures three to eight feet in diameter but has been known to reach as wide as 16 feet—it needs plenty of room to grow. Historically, the trunk of this tree with white bark was favored by Native Americans who would hollow it out for canoes.

American sycamore is best suited as a single specimen tree in a large area where it can reach its full growth potential. It thrives in well-drained, moist soil that’s high in organic matter. The largest American sycamore specimens are found along waterways, so plant this tree near a pond or stream for the best results. While American sycamore prefers a location where it receives full sun, it will tolerate light shade.

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4. Ghost Gum (Corymbia aparrerinja)

If you live in zones 9 and 10 and are looking for a fast-growing, white bark tree that won’t lose its foliage during the winter months, consider planting a Ghost Gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora). Native to Australia, the Ghost Gum, also called “snow gum” and “white sallee,” has made a name for itself in warmer regions of the US. With its ability to grow up to three feet per year, it doesn’t take Ghost Gum long to become a specimen in the landscape.

It reaches 45 to 50 feet in height with a crown spread of 25 to 30 feet at maturity. In addition to its creamy colored smooth bark, Ghost Gum features attractive gnarled branches, and the tree emits a faint but distinct aroma of eucalyptus. From October through December, Ghost Gum blossoms cover the tree in an explosion of delicate white flowers that offer a striking contrast against its deep green waxy leaves.

This variety grows in all types of soil, won’t mind drought, and flourishes in full sun (although it will tolerate partial shade). Perhaps unsurprisingly, it also thrives in salty coastal regions. Its rapid growth rate and tough demeanor—resistant to smog, insects, and diseases—also make it a good choice for planting in urban neighborhoods. It grows well in various soil types—from loamy to sandy but is susceptible to damage from beetle borers and root rot. Ghost Gum makes an excellent single specimen tree but is just as attractive when planted in groups of three or more.

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5. White Poplar (Populus alba)

Native to Europe and Central Asia, White popular is now grown in many countries, including zones 3 to 8 in the United States, where can become a remarkable focal point in the landscape. White popular produces silvery-green foliage, and at maturity, it reaches 50-75 feet, with a crown spread of up to 75 feet, making it well-suited for growing on large open lots.

The bark on white poplar produces a light green tinge when the tree is young but will mature to a white base with contrasting black patches and dark furrowed ridges. White poplar needs a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sun per day, and it prefers well-drained soil. However, it is tolerant of high moisture levels and will even withstand occasional flooding conditions.

An attractive specimen in the winter landscape, the tree is popular with nesting songbirds and squirrels. For all its positives, although, white poplar is not without challenges. The tree propagates itself quickly through sucker growth, so surrounding grounds should be carefully maintained to keep new suckers from growing.

6. European Poplar (Populus tremula)

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Related to American aspen and grown for its silvery-white bark that’s delightfully interspersed with patches of golden yellow, European poplar is commonly found in New England. It will survive as far north as USDA zone 2. Its bark remains smooth its entire life and the tree is often harvested for use as a veneer on high-quality wood furniture.

European popular grows quite tall, reaching 130 feet and producing a dense crown spread of up to 33 feet. The trunk base itself can reach 3 feet in diameter at maturity, making the tree well-suited to large lots and parks where its shimmery foliage can be enjoyed in summer and its stark white bark admired in winter.

The European poplar does best in a sunny location and thrives in moist but well-drained soil. It can be planted as a single specimen tree or in groupings of three or more in borders or privacy screens.

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FAQ About Trees with White Bark

White bark trees are alluring and beautiful in the winter landscape when their trunks and branches provide a stark contrast against buildings and gray skies. For those looking to incorporate the beauty of white bark trees in the landscape, some questions are to be expected.

What type of trees are white?

Among the most common types of white bark trees are varieties of aspen, birch, poplar, sycamore, and gum species.

What kind of tree has bark that looks like paper?

A type of birch, paper birch (Betula papyrifera), produces peeling white bark that resembles sheets of paper flaking off the trunk and branches.

What is the tree with large white flowers?

Several trees produce large white flowers in spring, with two of the most common being Southern Magnolia and White Dogwood.

What does a white poplar tree look like?

Also called “Silver Poplar,” the white poplar grows as tall as 75 feet with a crown spread just as large. At maturity, its white bark develops contrasting black ridges that offer a visually interesting design element in the landscape.

Final Thoughts

While most deciduous trees can be quite dull in the winter landscape, with their brownish-gray trunks and branches, white bark trees produce a stark contrast against houses, buildings, and gray skies. However, getting the right one requires researching the species to ensure it will thrive in a specific region.

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11 trees and shrubs with beautiful bark that will decorate the winter garden

Have you ever picked seedlings for the garden with an eye to their decorative effect in winter? We offer you a selection of trees and shrubs that will color the most gray and faded landscape.

Winter doesn't have to be synonymous with a boring gray garden! With the right selection of trees and shrubs, your personal corner of wildlife can sparkle with a rich variety of colors and textures. nine0003

Take note of our list!

Jacquemont birch (Betula utilis var. Jacquemontii)

Jacquemont birch, or simply Himalayan birch, as it is often called in everyday life, is perhaps the whitest birch in the world! Her bark finally turns white in the sixth year of life. Thanks to this feature in winter, especially in a light snow coat, she looks fabulous without exaggeration.

Given that this plant is native to the Himalayas, it feels great in the most severe frosts. This birch loves good lighting, but can also tolerate partial shade. Grows best in well-drained but well-drained soils. If your site is in a lowland, you should take care of the drainage of water. nine0003

Himalayan birch grows relatively slowly. The height of the tree reaches 9-12 m, while the width of the crown does not exceed 5-7 m. This is a multi-stem culture. The branches are directed upwards and do not "crumble" like a fan.

Jacquemann's birches look particularly impressive in group plantings. They can be used to create mixborders and alleys. Himalayan birches can be planted along the fence. And in winter, your site will be edged with the finest lace of snow-white branches.

Saw cherry (Prunus serrula)

Sawtooth cherry, a close relative of sakura, is also known among gardeners as the Tibetan cherry. This ornamental tree is attractive with shoots and a trunk of a luxurious shade of mahogany. The bark is glossy, shiny, densely speckled with streaky lenticels.

Tibetan cherry is a multi-stemmed tree with a branched crown. In adulthood, its height and crown diameter are approximately equal and reach 6-9 m.

Cherry of this species is truly unpretentious: it grows well on soils of various types, but especially prefers those rich in humus. Like other members of the family, the tree needs good lighting and watering, and does not like stagnant water in the area. nine0003

The plant is frost-resistant and adequately endures the winters of the middle zone. In addition, this cherry does not require complex care and radical pruning.

Sawtooth cherry looks magical not only in spring during flowering, but also in winter due to the bright color of the shoots. And in summer and autumn it is decorated with glossy dark green foliage.

Himalayan cherry fruits can theoretically be eaten raw, but in fact they have a very specific taste, not very pleasant. Most often, berries are used in folk medicine. nine0003

Heptacodium miconioides

Heptacodium miconioides has many beautiful names: northern myrtle, German rhododendron, and autumn lilac. But best of all, its appearance reflects the nickname given to the plant by the people - a flower about seven sons.

The fact is that the inflorescences of heptacodium are collected in lush paniculate brushes of 7 pieces. During flowering, they are strewn with snow-white flowers, and at the end of it they acquire a dark pink color - the sepals in which the purple fruits "hide" are painted in this color. It is the faded heptacodiums that resemble lilac bushes or rhododendrons. nine0003

The flowering period falls at the end of summer - the beginning of autumn. At this time, the corner of the garden, occupied by the heptacodium, is filled with a pleasant sweet aroma, something reminiscent of the smell of climbing honeysuckle Honeysuckle, and butterflies flutter around the fragrant bush.

We are interested in the appearance of this little-known shrub in our area in winter. Pink brushes are stored until the very first frost. But even without such an elegant decoration, the heptacodium attracts attention. Its shoots are covered with exfoliating barley-gray bark, very similar to the bark of the sycamore tree. nine0003

Culture can be formed not only as a shrub, but also as a small tree. The heptacodiums formed on three stems look the most beautiful. An adult plant grows up to 3-5 m.

This ornamental plant has won the recognition of many fans in Canada and the USA, and also managed to gain popularity in Western Europe. It is quite possible to grow it not only in the Moscow region, but also in the middle lane - according to the assurances of breeders, heptacodiums must endure frosts down to -29°C

Heptacodiums are planted in well-lit areas protected from the wind.

White Derain (Cornus alba)

White Derain (or White Svidina) is a favorite plant in autumn and winter mixborders. Its cherry-red shoots will bring bright accents to the "asleep" garden. For example, we have already offered the option of a beautiful flower garden with derain, heather, erica and herbs.

This shrub changes its “dress” several times in one season. In late spring and summer, he is "dressed" in green and white: the foliage is strewn with small brushes 5 cm in diameter, collected from tiny whitish-cream inflorescences. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, and the arrival of winter deren meets in a red "suit". nine0003

The fruits of this derain ripen in the middle of summer. Usually they are white, but in some varieties they become bluish-blue.

White sod sometimes blooms again in summer.

The bush will not give you trouble: it does not get sick, is not afraid of frost, drought and slight flooding.

The height of an adult plant is 2.4-3 m.

Keep in mind that trimming the turf depends on your plans for its participation in the garden "symphony". If you want to achieve the maximum spectacular look in winter, you need to stimulate the branching of the bush. To do this, cut off a third of the old shoots to the ground in early spring. If you want the deren to bloom and bear fruit, do not prune the young shoots. nine0003

There are various cultivars of white sod. The most popular of them are Elegantissima (Elegantissima), which is notable for its green foliage with a white border, Aurea (Aurea) with golden leaves, Sibirika (Sibirica) with bluish fruits.

Red turf (Cornus sanguinea)

Another variety of pork is blood-red (an alternative name is red turf). This shrub, just like its "brother", boasts a luxurious red tint of shoots. True, in his case, the color often becomes more reddish, almost orange. nine0003

The foliage of this deren is deep green in summer, turning purple-orange in autumn. Inflorescences, like the previous type of deren, are white. You can distinguish between these two varieties by the fruits - in the blood-red they are blue-black, almost inky.

Mature shrub reaches a height and width of up to 1.5-1.8 m. It is unpretentious to the type of soil, not susceptible to diseases. It is best to plant it in partial shade or in areas with diffused light. nine0003

Derain Red is ideal for creating hedges and mixborders.

The pruning principle for this plant is the same as for white sod. It is not necessary to carry it out, but to stimulate the formation of new shoots every spring, 1/3 of the old branches are cut into a ring.

Popular varieties of blood red derené - Magic flame (Magic Flame), Midwinter fire (Midwinter Fire).

Offspring deren (Cornus sericea, C. stolonifera)

Another beautiful type of turf is offspring turf. In size, it is slightly more compact than white turf and slightly larger than blood-red turf - an adult plant reaches 1.8-2.7 m in height and 2-3.6 m in width.

offspring turf varieties Cardinal

Breeders also bred undersized varieties of offshoot turf: Kelsei (Kelseyi) - up to 90 cm high, Insanti (Insanti) - up to 1.5 m high.

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Kelsey (left) and Insanti (right) offspring turf

As with blood red turf, the color of shoots depends on the cultivar. For example, in plants of the popular variety Flaviramea (Flaviramea) the bark is bright yellow, in the bushes Cardinal (Cardinal) - scarlet.

Flaviramea offspring turf

This turf grows quickly and does not require complex care. He loves moist soils, so it can be used in compositions near water bodies. nine0003

White willow (Salix alba)

Some types of willow can also be a worthy decoration of the winter garden. For example, white willow, or silver. Of course, the willow that has long become familiar, which grows in almost every yard, is unlikely to surprise anyone. But its unusual variety - Vitellina, will certainly attract attention with a bright shade of bare branches.

White willow cultivar Bricensis

Willow Vitellina cultivar Bricensis (Britzensis) will enchant you with its fiery orange-red shoots, cultivar Yelverton (Yelverton) - orange, varieties Golden Ness (Golden Ness) - golden.

White willow variety Golden Ness

White willow grows rapidly - up to 1.2-3 m per season. An adult tree grows up to 7 m. This must be taken into account when planting.

Best planted in sunny areas with moist, loose loamy soil.

White willow Yelverton

White willow is not afraid of frost and drought. In addition, it can be planted near water bodies. nine0003

Palmatum maple (Acer palmatum)

Palmate maple is a luxurious ornamental tree native to Japan. It is valuable not only for the beautiful shape of the leaves characteristic of other maples, but also for the variety of bark colors.

For example, Maple Bloodgood (Bloodgood) has shoots and foliage of a rich wine shade, variety Sango Kaku (Sango Kaku) has orange-red branches and light green leaves that turn yellow in autumn.

Bloodgood Palm Maple

The height of a tree depends not only on the variety, but also on the formation and growing conditions. On average palm-shaped maples grow up to 4-10 m in height.

This crop is surprisingly hardy, rarely gets sick, and does not require frequent pruning.

Sango Kaku palm-shaped maple

Forming and preventive pruning is carried out not earlier than 2-3 years of life and always in the fall, at rest.

15 fascinating trees from all over the world

Gray maple (Acer griseum)

Gray maple is known for its unusual, showy, chestnut colored peeling bark. Thanks to this distinctive feature in winter, against the background of a gray sky and snow-covered ground, it looks even more impressive than in summer.

It is worth noting that the autumn colors of this tree also enchant: the foliage acquires a ruby ​​hue, and this maple looks luxurious without exaggeration.

But this culture grows slowly. An adult tree reaches 6-10 m in height, and its crown is 4.5-7.5 m in diameter. nine0003

Gray maple can withstand temperatures down to -40°C, and according to some sources even down to -45°C.

Plant this crop in sunny or semi-shady areas with moist, loose soil.

Like Palm Maple, Gray Maple does not need to be pruned. If desired, the formation is carried out every 2-3 years in the fall.

Common hazel (Corylus avellana 'Contorta')

Common hazel can hardly be classified as an ornamental garden shrub. But her Contorta form deserves special attention! Hazel is beautiful not so much for its bark of a pleasant brown hue, but thanks to twisted, strongly twisted shoots. From afar, bare shoots resemble nothing less than a ball of writhing snakes. nine0003

In conditions of the middle belt, the height of the shrub rarely exceeds 1.5-2 m, and in warm regions it can reach 4 m. Kontorta hazel can also be grown in containers. It is best planted in sunny areas.

Pruning is minimal for this hazel - in spring, before the buds swell, it is enough to cut off damaged, old and ugly growing shoots.

Hazel is frost-resistant, winters well in the middle lane, rarely gets sick. nine0003

This plant can be planted in groups as a hedge.

Leather mackerel (Cotinus coggygria)

Leather mackerel is one of those ornamental shrubs that delight the eye all year round. No wonder the people often call it a miracle tree and a paradise tree.

During the flowering period, the skumpia is covered with airy racemes of inflorescences, which make it look like a pink cloud of cotton candy. In summer and autumn, the shrub is covered with beautiful oval-shaped foliage. And in winter and early spring, skumpia pleases with bright purple shoots. nine0003

Mackerel is not afraid of the most severe frosts, rarely suffers from diseases.

Sumpia pruning should be aimed at stimulating the growth of new shoots. Cut back about a third of the old shoots in early spring or fall. This will be enough so that the "haircut" of the bush does not affect its lush flowering.

There are various delicious cultivars of tannery: Velvet Cloak (Velvet Cloak) with purple leaves and buds, Nordine (Nordine) with pink buds and reddish-purple leaves, Golden Spirit (Golden Spirit) with pale pink buds and foliage that changes color from lime in spring to chartreuse in summer and golden orange in autumn during the season.

Which of these trees and shrubs grow in your garden? Share photos in the comments and on our forum!

Plants with red leaves for original landscaping

When planning a grand composition, circular view or landscape, you should always think about the accents. These are plants that differ in shape, size of habitus or shades of foliage or needles. For example, an ornamental plant with red leaves. When adding a certain accent “chip” to the composition, be sure to make sure that there is at least one more plant with the same feature in the planting. Thus, the landscape will be both interesting and harmonious. nine0003

Consider an example. In the photo on the left, a plant with red leaves draws too much attention to itself and outweighs the composition. Harmony is achieved by the simplest addition of a "counterweight" (second photo). Let it be a small shrub or perennial with a similar shade of foliage, but it will provide the necessary support for the main accent and make the landscape more pleasing to the eye.

This approach is not always used. But it is very popular in landscape design. The hue can also be flowing. For example, in support of the main accent (let it be the same purple-leaved barberry), a peony with red petals blooms. And after its flowering, by the middle of summer, the foliage of the bird cherry Schubert will turn red. In autumn, maple, viburnum or euonymus will add purple hues. Thus, we preserve the harmony of the composition and make it more alive. nine0003

In this post, we'll take a look at popular redleaf plants that will be the focal point for your landscape groups throughout the season.

Red leaf trees

Red leaf maples

Maple Norway Royal Red (Royal Red) is a tall broad-pyramidal tree, reaching 15 m in height at maturity. The trunk of the tree is covered with dark brown bark with numerous shallow depressions. The tree is dressed in large five-lobed leaves, painted in bright red, which becomes even richer in autumn. nine0003

Norway maple Crimson Sentry (Crimson Sentry) reaches a height of 8 m and has a compact cylindrical crown up to 1.5 m in diameter. On short branches, iridescent silver in the sun, there are many reddish-brown leaves of a recognizable "maple" shape.

Ornamental apple trees

Apple tree hybrid Royalty (Royalty) - a tree up to 5m tall with a crown of about 3m in diameter. The leaves are dark crimson in color with a pronounced gloss. In May, the tree is covered with numerous bright pink flowers. And in September, charming apples appear. They are small, even, round in shape and dark red in color, but not edible. nine0003

Apple tree decorative Royal beauty (Royal Beauty) - a tree with a weeping crown shape. In spring, the shoots are decorated with red-purple leaves, which, although they turn green in summer, retain a purple undertone. In May, the crown is wrapped in flowers of a rich pink hue. The fruits are small red apples. The size of an adult tree depends on the height of the graft and the method of crown formation.

Stunning beeches with beetroot crown

Beech Forest Dawyck Purple (Davik Purple) - a tree with a columnar dense slender crown of thin winding branches growing upwards. It grows up to 12m in height, but retains a neat shape. The main advantage is the delightful, brilliant gloss under the sun's rays, purple-red leaves. In autumn they turn purplish brown. Beech does not need shelter even at a young age, can withstand a little shading and calmly endures a dry summer. Grows slowly. nine0003

Beech Forest Purple Fountain (Purple Fountain). This tree grows slowly until the age of ten, then faster. By the age of twenty, it reaches a height of 5 m and 2 m in diameter. Weeping crown. The branches form picturesque cascades. In summer they have a purple hue, and in autumn they turn yellow. An ideal specimen for large plots and an accent tree in landscape compositions.

Unusual bird cherry with changing foliage color

The cherry bird cherry Shubert (Schubert) is a compact tree up to 6 m in height with an oval dense crown. In spring, it is decorated with bright green young leaves and charming snow-white flowering. In mid-July, the foliage begins to turn red, acquiring a steady purplish-brown hue. During this period, young shoots with bright light green foliage look spectacular. By the end of summer, small rounded black berries ripen. nine0003

Bird cherry red-leaved Siberian beauty (Siberian Beauty) - a tree up to 7m in height with a pyramidal crown. When blooming and during the flowering period, the leaves are painted in a light green color, which from mid-summer is replaced by a different color scheme. The upper side of the leaves becomes dark purple, and the underside is purple. It blooms in May with neat snow-white flowers, exuding an incomparable magnificent "bird cherry" aroma that fills the spring air. The flowers are collected in exquisite brushes that completely strew the tree. nine0003



Shrubs with red leaves

The most popular barberry varieties with purple leaves

Barberry Ottawa Superba (Superba) - a tall spherical shrub from 2m in diameter with a red-violet summer color. It is charming during the flowering period, when brushes of delicate yellow-red flowers form on each branch.

Barberry tunberg Atropurpurea (Atropurpurea) is a sprawling shrub with a dense crown that grows up to 2 m in height and the same in diameter. It has small leaves, purple-red hue. In the fall season, they take on a bright red color. In spring, it blooms with light flowers, collected in inflorescences of five pieces. nine0003



Dark red shade-tolerant elder

Black Elderberry Black Beauty (Black Beauty) - a shrub with an enviable growth force reaches 3 m in height, has a dense spreading crown. The dark purple foliage is oblong with obvious serrations and an elongated tip. In June, against the background of a dark crown, charming corymbose inflorescences appear, consisting of small pale pink flowers. Closer to autumn, small black berries ripen, suitable for eating. nine0003

Black Elderberry Black Lace (Black Lace) is a rounded sprawling shrub reaching a height of about 2. 5m. It has strongly dissected foliage of a dark beet color (the intensity of color depends on the quality of illumination). With the onset of summer, the tips of the shoots are decorated with delicate inflorescences of pink flowers that fade to white during flowering. By the end of the season, delicious dark berries ripen.

Charming weigela with reddish brown leaves

Weigela blooming Alexandra (Alexandra) is a flowering shrub that grows up to only 2 meters in height, and with age grows in diameter, acquiring a rounded shape. The leaves are burgundy when blooming, then turn green with a bronze tint. A distinctive feature of weigela is its repeated flowering. In June and August, the shrub is abundantly covered with bright, crimson or pink flowers that have a pleasant aroma.

Weigela blooming Minor Black (Minor Black) is a compact shrub up to 60cm in height and the same width. Matte leaves of a noble burgundy color, under the influence of sunlight become dark and can turn brown-green. The flowers are dark pink, up to 2.5 cm in diameter. nine0003



Red-leaved, fast-growing vesicles

Vesicle viburnum Lady in Red (Lady in red) - shrub up to 1.5 m in height. When blooming, the leaves are red, and by autumn they darken to chestnut-burgundy. Densely blooms with delicate contrasting white inflorescences

Bubble-weed Diabolo (Diablo) - a spherical bush with red leaves up to 3m in height. Flexible branches first grow up, and then bend with their tips to the ground. The crown is purple-red with a green undertone. It blooms with corymbose crimson inflorescences. Fruits in the form of purple-red swollen leaflets. nine0003



Fascinating skumpia and mysterious hazel

Skumpia tannery Royal Purple (Royal Purple). This picturesque shrub grows up to 1.5 meters in height and in diameter. Slender shoots are densely leafy, which gives the plant a lush rounded crown. Leaves purple-burgundy. In early summer, the shrub is densely covered with numerous compact pink flowers collected in openwork inflorescences. And by the end of summer, long red threads appear on the peduncles, giving the crown an airy, cloud-like shape. nine0003

Common hazel Purpurea (Purpurea) - a shrub reaches a height of 5 meters, the crown is widely spreading, the shoots grow vertically. At the end of April, the hazel blossoms and small purple catkins appear surrounded by foliage. And the leaves are a sight to behold! They are large, deep wine color. Across the entire area of ​​​​the leaves there are several decorative curves resembling waves. Fruits nuts known as hazelnuts.

Red-leaved perennials

Hardy geyhers with red foliage

Geyhera hybrid Cajun Fire (Kayun fire) is a miniature perennial with red leaves growing up to 25 cm in spherical shape. The leaves are large, deep red, darkening during the season, becoming dark purple. Pink-white flowers bloom on long stalks above a shock of red leaves.

Geichera hybrid Rio (Rio) - a herbaceous plant up to 30 cm high with a voluminous spreading crown. The leaves delight with their amber-red hue. It blooms with snow-white small inflorescences that bloom in spring on long vertical pedicels. The plant feels great in partial shade, so it can be planted in the near-trunk zone of large trees. nine0003



Red-leaved cereals: emperora and millet

Imperata Red baron (Red Baron) grows up to 45 cm in height. It has vertically growing foliage. When young, they are bright green, with a red tint at the tips. Then they turn completely red. It blooms in late summer with fluffy silver spikelets.

Root millet Rehbraun (Rehbraun) - herbaceous growth up to 2m in height. A dense shrub covered with flat linear foliage of an unusual red-brown color. In August, many panicle inflorescences appear creating an airy effect.

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