Best trees for winter interest
After the colorful spectacle that the deciduous trees present us in autumn, the winter follows. In this article we present a list of the best trees for winter interest.
They are now leafless but they are not less spectacular. Many of them have their high point in winter where they reveal the colors of their branches, the texture of their bark or the delicacy of their canopies.
The bark texture in trees can take time to be achieved. However, the vibrant coloring of some species is achieved quickly in the youngest branches.
These trees can be planted in flower beds with shrubs that contrast well in winter. See our list of the most beautiful winter shrubs to get some ideas.
In this article
Paper bark maple (Acer griseum)
Paperbark maple (Acer griseum) – bark detail – Salicyna, CC BY-SA 4.0
The paper bark maple (Acer griseum) can grow up to 10m and has an attractive copper-colored bark that peels naturally.
Japanese maple ‘Sango-kaku’ (Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’)
Japanese maple ‘Sango-kaku’ (Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’) – Featuring red branches in winter
The Japanese maple ‘Sango-kaku’ (Acer palmatum Sango-kaku) is a spectacular tree all year round. However, it is perhaps in the winter that it is at its best. The red color of its branches is really extraordinary.
Plant this maple in front of a dark wall or a hedge of dark-colored conifers to enhance its effect.
Japanese maple ‘Bi Hoo’ (Acer palmatum ‘Bi Hoo’)
Japanese maple ‘Bi-hoo’ (Acer palmatum ‘Bi-hoo’) – Yellow branches in winter
Another magnificent maple. It has characteristics very similar to sango-kaku maple, the difference being that Acer Bi Hoo produces branches of a bright yellow. Planted together have an effect on your garden that is difficult to pass without stopping to appreciate.
Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. Jacquemontii)
Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. jacquemontii) – Liné1, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The bright white bark of the Himalayan birch (Betula utilis var. Jacquemontii) is truly incredible, almost surreal. These trees create an even more beautiful effect when planted in groups.
Tibetan Cherry (Prunus serrula)
Tibetan cherry (Prunus serrula) – Acabashi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The shiny brown Tibetan cherry bark peels as it ages, making it an attractive feature in winter.
Corkscrew willow (Salix babylonica var. Pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’)
Corkscrew willow (Salix babylonica var. Pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’)
The corkscrew willow (Salix babylonica var. Pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’) stands out for its contorted branches. It makes a very beautiful effect in front of a smooth surface. The branches can be cut to make arrangements and other decorations.
