All Bark and No Bite
Submitted January 11, 2019 at 12:00 PM
Usually overshadowed by bright flowers and green leaves, the bark of trees and shrubs can actually be quite interesting. The color can range from white, to yellow, to reds and browns with textures that are completely smooth to others that are deeply furled or corky. Winter is by far the best time to observe the fascinating world of bark. Woof Woof.
Paperbark Maple Acer griseum
This Maple is one of the most attractive Maples during the winter. You can find it growing on the Floral Walk and Perennial Garden.
Curl-leaf Mountain Mahogany Cercocarpus ledifolius
A native tree throughout the mountains of Utah, this species can be grown as a shrub or trained as a tree.
Red-osier Dogwood Cornus sericea
Planted throughout the Garden, this red-barked Utah native can also be found growing along rivers and streams throughout the state.
Bud's Yellow Dogwood Cornus alba 'Bud's Yellow'
When planted together, the greenish yellow bark of this Dogwood contrasts nicely with the red bark of the native Red-osier Dogwood.
Blue Pyramid Arizona Cypress Cupressus arizonica 'Blue Pyramid'
You'll need to look through the evergreen branches to get a glimpse of this wonderfully textured and colorful bark.
Purple Leaved Elderberry Sambucus nigra 'Purpurea'
As this shrub matures, its bark becomes furrowed and sometimes corky.
The Garden is a great place to visit during winter. Besides getting a peek at what is normally hidden by leaves, you may also see some of our resident wildlife. While you're here, you have a chance to see birds, ermine, squirrels, fox, coyote, and the elusive bobcat.
