Discover which tree bark characteristics are worth a second look. In addition to leaves and flowers, you can look at a tree's bark to identify it. Skip to content ...

I usually rely upon leaves to identify most tree species, so winter tree identification can be difficult. The chestnut oak bark is rugged and monochromatic that is gray and thick-ridged.

Winter is the perfect time to learn a new skill when you do not need a green canopy: identifying trees. Here's how to get started.

Bark can look different as a tree matures or based on growing conditions. It can be tricky to use bark to identify a young tree. But there is another way to tell: scratch and sniff.