Identify tree by bark: practical patterns and photo tips
Identify a tree by bark using a simple photo routine and beginner bark categories: ridges, plates, peeling, and lenticles.
When leaves are missing or ambiguous, bark becomes one of the best ways to identify a tree. The trick is to photograph it correctly and use simple texture categories that beginners can apply.
The bark photo pair (do this every time)
- Close-up: sharp texture (ridges, plates, pores) — no motion blur.
- Mid-distance: 1–2 meters back to show pattern along the trunk.
Beginner bark categories
| Category | What it looks like | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth | Even surface, minimal texture | Common on young trees; needs extra clues |
| Ridges & furrows | Vertical grooves and raised ridges | Great for mature trees |
| Plates/scales | Blocky plates breaking apart | Often distinctive at species/group level |
| Peeling | Strips or curls peeling away | Very recognizable for some species |
| Lenticles | Dots/lines (often horizontal) | Helps narrow candidates in several groups |
How to avoid bark photo mistakes
- Don’t shoot in deep shadow: texture disappears. Step to even light.
- Avoid extreme close macro only: you need the larger pattern too.
- Use the trunk, not a small branch: branches can have different texture.
Add one more clue for high confidence
Pair bark with one of these:
- Leaf on twig (arrangement is high signal) — see identify tree from leaf.
- Whole tree silhouette (branching pattern, canopy shape).
- Buds (winter) — bud size/shape and placement can be distinctive.
Next steps
- Full workflow: tree identifier
- Starting from a photo: identify plant from photo
FAQ
How close should the bark photo be?
Close enough to show texture clearly (usually 20–40 cm / 8–16 in away). Take one close-up and one mid-distance trunk shot.
Does bark change with age?
Yes. Young bark can be smooth and later become ridged or plated. If possible, photograph a mature section of trunk.
What are lenticles?
Small pores/dots or horizontal lines on bark that help some species exchange gases. They can be a useful clue.
Can I identify a tree in winter using bark?
Often yes — bark + buds + branching pattern can be enough when leaves are absent.
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