While tree bark is often brown or gray, some species display striking red hues. This vibrant coloration, ranging from copper to deep mahogany, makes these trees distinctive, especially in dormant seasons. Red bark is a key characteristic for identifying these specific trees.
Trees Recognized for Red Bark
The Paperbark Maple (Acer griseum) is known for its cinnamon-brown to reddish-brown bark, which peels in papery curls. This exfoliating bark reveals a smoother, brighter inner layer. Its trifoliate leaves, meaning they have three leaflets, turn orange and red in autumn.
Pacific Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) displays smooth, reddish-brown bark that flakes and peels in thin strips during summer. This uncovers a fresh, light green underlayer that matures into a deeper red. This evergreen tree also features leathery, dark green leaves, white bell-shaped flowers, and bright red berries.
Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea, C. alba, or C. sanguinea) is known for its intensely bright red stems, prominent in winter after leaves fall. While often grown as a shrub, some varieties can achieve a more tree-like form. Its deep green foliage typically transitions to purplish-red in autumn.
Tibetan Cherry (Prunus serrula) is known for its glossy, reddish-brown to mahogany bark that peels horizontally in thin, translucent sheets. This smooth, shiny bark creates a striking display, especially when illuminated by sunlight. The tree also produces narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves, small white flowers in spring, and red fruit.
The River Birch (Betula nigra) has distinctive reddish-brown bark that peels in thin, papery sheets, revealing lighter, often salmon-pink or tan layers underneath. This shedding bark creates a multi-toned, textured appearance. This fast-growing tree typically has diamond-shaped leaves that turn soft yellow in the fall.
Factors Influencing Red Bark and Identification
Red coloration in tree bark is influenced by factors like age, bark exfoliation, and chemical compounds. Younger bark or new growth often shows more intense red hues than older bark, which can become darker or more furrowed with age.
Many red-barked trees get their color from the exfoliation of outer bark layers, exposing naturally reddish inner bark. This process can reveal smooth, brightly colored surfaces. Pigments like tannins also contribute to reddish-brown coloration.
Environmental conditions, like sunlight exposure, can intensify bark color. Sometimes, a reddish tint is due to microscopic algae containing red or orange pigments. For identification, observe characteristics beyond bark color, such as the tree’s overall shape, leaf structure, flowers, fruits, geographic location, and typical habitat.