7 Eye-Catching Tree Trunks in Winter
Many trees and shrubs lose their leaves in the winter. As a result, the garden often looks very different.
Evergreen shrubs and trees with distinctive trunks really stand out right now.
7 Trees with Distinctive Trunks
(and all suitable for small gardens)
Betula utilis Doornbos
The beautiful white trunk of the Himalayan birch: it’s our favorite for good reason! Especially as a multi-trunked tree, it’s a real asset to your garden. What makes it even more special is that the bark peels off in flakes.
Platanus hispanica
The stately sycamore is becoming an increasingly common sight in front yards, especially as a canopy tree or espalier tree. Its trunk is almost reminiscent of camouflage clothing.
Acer griseum
The paper maple stands out because of its peeling bark. This creates a very unique effect in the winter garden. The trunk is orange-brown, and this maple also turns beautiful colors in the fall.
Salix alba 'Chermesina'
This willow has striking orange-red branches. It looks beautiful in the winter, especially along the water’s edge. In addition, the tree is, of course, very well suited for pollarding.
Cornus alba sibirica
The bright red trunks and branches of this dogwood really stand out in the winter garden, especially when paired with an evergreen shrub next to it. The upright branches remain a beautiful red all winter long. In the spring, the color fades, but the leaves emerge and a subtle white bloom appears. It’s not a true tree, but a shrub—yet it’s certainly no less striking and beautiful!
Cornus sanguinem Midwinter Fire
Just like the 'Alba' variety, the branches really stand out. But this dogwood doesn't have red branches—they're a fiery orange-yellow.
Acer palmatum 'Sangokaku'
A beautiful, compact Japanese maple with a bright red trunk and branches.
Fraxinus excelsior Jaspidea
This alder has yellow branches, which create a striking contrast with the rest of your garden in winter. It is a relatively slow-growing alder, making it a better choice for urban gardens.