Home » Misc » What type of tree has white bark

What type of tree has white bark


The 6 Best White Bark Trees That Look Great All Year

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Advertisement

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.

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Advertisement

Photo: istockphoto.com

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)

Photo: istockphoto.com

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

Trees with white bark: 10 varieties to bring contrast

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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')

(Image credit: Alamy)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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)

(Image credit: Getty Images)

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. 

Top 6 white bark trees that look great all year round

Contents

Often trees are selected and grown for their foliage, fruit, or flowers, seasonal features that bloom and wither over several months. However, it is possible to find deciduous trees (those whose leaves fall in winter) that can give beauty all year round. The main thing is to narrow the search area to trees with white bark. Even during the winter months when they are barren, the unique alabaster branches create a striking contrast against dark siding, evergreens, or even the winter sky.

Although white bark trees are not uncommon, they are not as common as other trees for two reasons: some varieties require special climates, while others are susceptible to disease and insect infestation. Before selecting a tree, make sure it is suitable for your geographic region by consulting the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which lists the lowest average winter temperatures by region.

Be aware that some white trees have additional geographic hardiness zone requirements such as height restrictions, so do your homework to determine which trees to grow and which to avoid. The following six types of trees are most often chosen for the beauty of their white bark.

Top 6 White Bark Trees

Although their growing range is limited, the following trees do well in certain regions and under certain growing conditions. Planting a tree with white bark will add visual interest to the landscape and help increase property value.

1. Himalayan birch ( Betula utilis )

You may be familiar with some species of birch with beige or brown bark, but some species of Himalayan birch ( Betula utilis var. Jacquemontii ) are creamy white torso and limbs. These birches are native to the Himalayas and prefer cool, well-drained soil and partial to full sun exposure. These varieties of birch grow best in zones 1 to 7, although areas where summer temperatures regularly exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit can be detrimental to their growth. If you live in the northern parts of the United States, Canada, or Alaska, take a look at the following white bark trees - although they are very similar, each one has a few unique qualities.

Although the trees themselves love full sun, the ground around their roots should be shaded. This can be achieved by adding a layer of hardwood bark mulch around the trunk. In addition, Himalayan birches are prone to sawfly and aphids infestation and can develop diseases such as rust and leaf spot. For best results, have your tree checked by a tree specialist (arborist) annually and treat it as needed to keep it in good condition.

2. American Aspen ( Populus tremuloides )

For fans of colorful fall foliage, nothing beats the bright gold and orange spectacle put on by a grove of aspens on a forested mountainside. American aspen ( Populus tremuloides ), also known as "trembling aspen" or "trembling aspen", produces a white tree trunk with smooth bark that can reach 80 feet when mature with a narrow canopy of only 20 feet. The bright white bark of the American aspen develops contrasting black markings as it matures, adding to its visual interest. Under optimal conditions, the American aspen grows rapidly, growing up to four feet per year.

This soaring tree grows best in zones 2 to 7, and while it loves full sun, it doesn't care about summer temperatures that regularly top 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It also does not tolerate low altitudes: the American aspen rarely grows below 2,000 feet and grows best between 5,000 and 12,000 feet. By entering your city and state on this interactive elevation map, you can determine if the American Aspen is right for your area. (Bonus points if you're in the right altitude range and near banks and streams, as these white-barked trees thrive in plenty of water and well-drained soil. )

With its tall, lean stature, the American aspen is well suited to growing in groups, and when sown three to five inches apart, produces a multi-trunk effect. It is just as attractive when planted singly along fences and property lines, or anywhere else where stately borders are desirable. Aspens grow with root shoots, so a few aspen bushes can turn into a spectacular grove in 15-20 years.

3. American sycamore ( Western Sycamore )

Reaching an average height of 100 feet at maturity with an equally broad crown span, the white-barked American Sycamore ( Western Sycamore ) is a spectacular addition to a large landscape. It grows well in zones 4 to 9, averaging two to two and a half feet tall per year. It produces insignificant yellow-red flowers in spring, which give way to large green leaves (up to nine inches wide) in summer. Balls of inedible, brownish fruit develop in summer and eventually dry out, bursting and releasing the hairy seeds. Its mottled white bark, which turns brown at first and becomes creamy white after 10–12 years, makes it a favorite in the winter landscape.

Due to its large size (an average mature trunk is three to eight feet in diameter but has been known to be 16 feet wide), it needs a lot of room to grow. Historically, the tree's white-barked trunk was preferred by Native Americans, who used it to build canoes.

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

4. Ghost Gum ( Corymbia aparrerinja )

If you live in zones 9 and 10 and are looking for a fast growing tree with white bark that won't shed its leaves during the winter months, consider planting Ghost Gum ( Eucalyptus pauciflora ). Native to Australia, Ghost Gum, also known as "snow gum" and "white sally", has made a name for itself in the warmer regions of the US. With its ability to grow up to three feet per year, Ghost Gum is quickly becoming a landscape icon.

It reaches 45 to 50 feet in height with a crown span of 25 to 30 feet at maturity. In addition to smooth, cream-colored bark, Ghost Gum has attractive gnarled branches, and the tree exudes a faint but distinct eucalyptus scent. From October to December, Ghost Gum covers the tree with an explosion of delicate white flowers that create a striking contrast with its dark green waxy leaves.

This variety grows in all types of soil, is drought tolerant and blooms in full sun (although it tolerates partial shade). Perhaps unsurprisingly, it also thrives in salty coastal areas. Its fast growth and tough demeanor, resistant to smog, insects and disease, also make it a good choice for planting in urban areas. It grows well in a variety of soil types ranging from loamy to sandy, but is susceptible to damage from borer beetles and root rot. Ghost Gum is a great example of a tree, but just as attractive when planted in groups of three or more.

5. White poplar ( Populus alba )

Native To Europe and Central Asia White popular now grown in many countries, including zones 3 to 8 in the United States, where it can become wonderful the center of the landscape. The White Popular produces silvery green foliage and grows to 50-75 feet when mature, with a crown span of up to 75 feet, making it well suited to growing in large open areas.

White poplar bark produces a light green hue when young, but will grow to a white base with contrasting black spots and dark furrowed ridges. White poplar needs a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day and prefers well-drained soil. However, it is resistant to high levels of humidity and even withstands occasional floods.

This tree is an eye-catcher for its winter scenery and is popular with nesting songbirds and squirrels. However, for all its merits, white poplar is not without problems. The tree reproduces rapidly through the growth of suckers, so the surrounding land should be carefully maintained to prevent the growth of new suckers.

6. European Poplar ( Populus tremula )

Related to the American Aspen and cultivated for its silvery white bark which is delightfully punctuated with golden yellow spots, the European poplar is commonly found in New England. It will survive as far north as USDA Zone 2. Its bark remains smooth throughout its life and the wood is often harvested for use as veneer for high quality wooden furniture.

Popular in Europe grows quite tall, reaching 130 feet and giving a dense canopy up to 33 feet. The base of the trunk itself can reach 3 feet in diameter at maturity, making the tree well suited to large lots and parks, where its glossy foliage can be admired in summer and its stark white bark in winter.

European Poplar grows best in full sun and moist but well-drained soil. It can be planted as a single tree specimen or in groups of three or more in borders or privacy screens.

Frequently Asked Questions about White Bark Trees

White bark trees are alluring and beautiful in a winter landscape when their trunks and branches contrast sharply with the buildings and gray skies. From those who want to add the beauty of trees with white bark to the landscape, some questions should be expected.

Which trees are white?

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

Which tree bark is like paper?

A cultivar of birch, paper birch (Betula papyrifera), produces flaky white bark resembling sheets of paper flaking off the trunk and branches.

Which tree has large white flowers?

Some trees produce large white flowers in spring, the two most common are southern magnolia and white dogwood.

What does white poplar look like?

White Poplar, also called "Silver Poplar", grows up to 75 feet tall with an equally large crown. At maturity, its white bark develops contrasting black ridges that are a visually interesting design element in the landscape.

Final Thoughts

While most deciduous trees can be quite dull in a winter landscape, with their brownish gray trunks and branches, white-barked trees contrast sharply with the houses, buildings, and gray skies. However, in order to choose the right one, it is necessary to study this species to make sure that it will thrive in a particular region.

WHICH TREES HAVE WHITE BARK?

Share

Pin

Tweet

Send

Share

Send

About 1000 tree species are native to North America. Of these, only a handful have white bark. As a landscaping option, white bark trees are valued for their appearance as well as their rarity. However, not all of these species are suitable for the average yard. Fortunately, since there are so few of them, it is easy to identify these trees and determine if they are suitable for your landscape.

Photo: design photo / design photo / Getty Images White birch tree trunks against autumn colors

White birch

credit: DAJ/amana images/Getty ImagesWhite birches in the forest

The white birch ( Betula papyrifera ) is a deciduous North American tree with a planting range in USDA plant hardiness zones 2-6 . white bark that peels off in thin, papery strips. One of the common names for the tree is paper birch. Since East American Indians built waterproof canoes from overlapping strips of bark, this tree is also commonly referred to as the canoe birch.

Reaching an average height of 70 feet, the white birch is a medium-sized tree that forms a rounded crown and often splits into several trunks. It requires moist but well-drained sandy or rocky soil, preferably with a northern or eastern exposure that provides partial shade. In the landscape, white birch shows up well with evergreens and provides color contrast in autumn when its leaves turn pale yellow.

American sycamore

Credit: MackoFlower / iStock / Getty Images American sycamore branches against a blue sky.

As one of the largest trees native to eastern North America, the American sycamore ( Platanus occidentalis ) offers plenty of shade with its average maximum height of 90 feet and canopy spread of 70 feet. this peeling bark creates the effect of grey/white camouflage.

Also known as the button tree and the American planet tree, the American sycamore has a wide planting range that covers USDA zones 4b through 9a. The tree requires full sun, but is unrelated to soil type or pH levels, and tolerates prolonged flooding as well as drought. Because this is resistant to disease and air pollution, it is often chosen for urban areas, including along residential streets.

Eucalyptus Ghost Gum

Credit: TassieKarin / iStock / Getty Images0035) is an evergreen Australian native hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. tolerates any soil type and is drought tolerant. Since it produces very little "garbage" and its branches withstand strong winds, the tree is planted along desert roads.

With a potential height of 60 feet and a slightly smaller spread, the ghost gum tree offers shade for the home landscape, especially when planted in a grove. Its white bark provides a contrast to other evergreens and is is a notable addition to the moon gardens.

Aspen

Credit: SageElyse/iStock/Getty ImagesWhite Trunk Trembling Aspens in the Forest

Also known as golden aspen, mountain aspen, and poplar, the trembling aspen ( Populus tremuloides ) has the largest natural range of North American trees, from USDA zone to 8 leaves tremble in the slightest breeze due to flat petioles that connect leaf blades and stems.

Learn more