Choosing Trees with Showy Bark
Here are some common varieties to choose from for ornamental bark on trees. River Birch – A tree that grows very well on the banks of streams, it can also serve as a specimen on a lawn or garden. Its bark peels away in papery sheets to reveal a striking color contrast with the bark underneath. Chilean Myrtle – A relatively small tree at 6 to 15 feet (2 to 4.5 m.) high, it has smooth, red-brown bark that peels attractively as it ages. Coral Bark Maple – A tree with strikingly red branches and stems. It actually turns more impressively red in cold weather. As the branches age, they take on a darker green cast, but new stems will always be bright red. Crape Myrtle – Another myrtle, this one’s bark peels away in thin layers, creating a smooth but beautifully mottled effect. Strawberry Tree – It doesn’t actually grow strawberries, but its bark is a gorgeous red that peels away in shreds, creating a highly textured, multicolor look. Red-twig Dogwood – Just as its name suggests, this small tree’s branches are bright red. Their color gets even brighter in cold weather. Striped Maple – A mid-sized tree with green bark and long, white, vertical striations. Its bright yellow foliage in the fall only heightens the effect. Lacebark Pine – A tall, spreading tree with naturally flaking bark that makes for a mottled pattern of green, pink, and gray pastels, especially on the trunk. Lacebark Elm – Mottled green, gray, orange, and brown peeling bark cover the trunk of this large shade tree. As a bonus, it’s resistant to Dutch elm disease. Hornbeam – A beautiful shade tree with striking fall foliage, its bark is naturally sinewy, taking on the appearance of flexing muscles.
