Birch trees, known for their distinctive white bark, often spark curiosity about what are the white trees called. The genus Betula, a scientific classification within botany, encompasses many tree species displaying this characteristic. Paper birch (Betula papyrifera), a common variety native to North America, presents a strikingly white trunk. Landscape architects frequently utilize these trees to enhance the visual appeal of parks and gardens due to their aesthetic value.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Forests for the Bay , from the video titled Tree Talk: White Oak .
Unveiling White Trees: Names & Secrets Revealed!
This guide delves into the fascinating world of trees characterized by their striking white bark or significant white features. We will explore different tree species that fit this description, addressing the common question: "What are the white trees called?". We’ll uncover their popular names, botanical classifications, and key characteristics that contribute to their unique appearance.
Understanding "White Trees": Defining the Scope
Before diving into specific tree names, it’s important to define what constitutes a "white tree" for the purpose of this exploration. We will primarily focus on trees with:
- Predominantly white or near-white bark.
- Notable white or silvery foliage.
- Significant white floral displays contributing to the overall white appearance.
It’s also crucial to acknowledge that "white" can manifest in various shades, ranging from pure white to silvery-gray or even light tan hues that, under certain lighting conditions, appear distinctly white.
Prominent White-Barked Tree Species
Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)
- Common Names: Paper birch, white birch, canoe birch.
- Botanical Name: Betula papyrifera
- Description: Perhaps the most iconic "white tree," the paper birch is recognized for its striking, peeling white bark. The bark is thin and papery, easily separating into sheets.
- Key Features: Distinctive white bark, ovate leaves with serrated edges, catkins (cylindrical flower clusters).
Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
- Common Names: Quaking aspen, trembling aspen, white poplar.
- Botanical Name: Populus tremuloides
- Description: While not as intensely white as the paper birch, the quaking aspen has a smooth, light-colored bark that often appears white or silvery, especially on younger trees.
- Key Features: Smooth, light-colored bark, leaves that "quake" in the slightest breeze, tall and slender growth habit.
European White Birch (Betula pendula)
- Common Names: European white birch, silver birch.
- Botanical Name: Betula pendula
- Description: Similar to the paper birch, the European white birch features distinctive white bark, often peeling in horizontal strips.
- Key Features: White bark, drooping branches, diamond-shaped leaves.
Himalayan Birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii)
- Common Names: Himalayan birch, West Himalayan birch.
- Botanical Name: Betula utilis var. jacquemontii
- Description: Known for its incredibly pure white bark, the Himalayan birch is highly prized as an ornamental tree. The bark is exceptionally smooth and bright.
- Key Features: Extremely white bark, ovate leaves, native to the Himalayas.
Trees with Notable White Floral Displays
While the focus is primarily on white bark, some trees contribute to the "white tree" landscape due to their abundant white flowers.
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida)
- Common Names: Flowering dogwood, American dogwood.
- Botanical Name: Cornus florida
- Description: In spring, the flowering dogwood is covered in showy white bracts (modified leaves that resemble petals).
- Key Features: White bracts in spring, red berries in fall, interesting branching pattern.
Distinguishing Features: A Comparative Table
| Tree Species | Bark Color | Other Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera) | White | Peeling, papery bark; horizontal lenticels |
| Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides) | Light Gray | Leaves that "quake" in the breeze; smooth bark (especially when young) |
| European White Birch (Betula pendula) | White | Drooping branches; diamond-shaped leaves; may have black fissures in the bark with age |
| Himalayan Birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) | Pure White | Exceptionally smooth bark; striking ornamental value |
| Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) | Gray-Brown | Showy white bracts in spring; red berries in fall |
Factors Influencing Bark Color
It’s important to remember that the apparent color of tree bark can be influenced by various factors:
- Age: Younger trees often have brighter bark. As trees mature, the bark may darken or develop fissures.
- Weather: Wet conditions can darken the bark, while dry conditions may make it appear lighter.
- Sunlight: Exposure to direct sunlight can affect bark pigmentation.
- Disease: Certain diseases can alter bark color or texture.
- Location: Local climate and soil conditions impact the overall health and appearance of trees.
Therefore, while the trees listed above are generally known for their white characteristics, slight variations in color are to be expected.
So, next time you’re wandering through the woods and spot those beautiful, shimmering trees, you’ll know a little bit more about what are the white trees called. Happy tree spotting!