An easy way to identify types of trees is by looking at tree bark! To identify a tree, look at the color and surface texture of its bark. Learn about different species of bark below and how to do a tree-bark rubbing.
Download our free (and beautiful) tree bark poster and matching game for kids!
![](https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Tree-Bark-09.jpg)
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How to Identify Trees by Bark Characteristics
- Beech bark is light gray with a smooth surface.
- Cherry bark is shiny and brown or gray colored with reddish-brown deep grooves that resemble tiger stripes.
- Aspen bark is green-white as a result of its chlorophyll, and it has dark, diamond-shaped openings.
- Silver birch bark is shiny with a white, paperlike outer layer that easily peels off the trunk.
- Hickory bark is gray and flaky with ridges in its texture.
- Scotch pine bark is typically thick and grayish or reddish around the base of the tree, gradually becoming more orange and flaky toward the top.
- Ash bark is smooth and pale gray in saplings, and mature trees have diamond shapes.
- Oak bark can be light gray to near black. It has deep fissures and ridges, giving it a scaly look.
- Sycamore bark is thin and flaky. It looks like camouflage because of its mottled appearance.
- Sequoia bark varies based on the tree’s age. It begins as a gray (even purplish) color and then becomes a reddish-brown color as the tree ages. The bark is soft and has long, vertical plates.
![](https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Tree-Bark-08-1024x663.jpg)
Tree Bark Rubbing
Bark rubbing is a fun and simple activity that reveals the textures and patterns of a tree’s surface. As children complete this activity, they will see the detailed characteristics of the tree’s bark, such as grooves and ridges.
It’s fun to connect with nature while experiencing a new art technique!
Supplies
- Crayons with the paper peeled off (jumbo sized works best for small hands)
- Copy paper
- Pushpins or tape (optional)
Procedure
- Hold, pin, or tape a piece of paper against the bark of a tree.
- Use the side of the crayon, not the tip, to rub over the paper.
- Repeat this process with different parts of the same tree trunk or with additional trees.
Discuss and reflect
- What stands out to you, or what do you notice in your tree rubbings?
- How are the barks similar or different?
- Does the bark appear smooth or rough?
- Did you get different patterns and textures from the same tree, or did the pattern remain the same?
![](https://www.goodandbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Tree-Bark-06.jpg)
Don’t forget to download our tree bark poster and fun matching game—they’re perfect to take with you as you explore the many amazing trees in our world!
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