Here are six species or varieties. They often appear in pairs, but these pairs are really borne on spur-like, two-leaved, lateral branchlets. Birch species are generally small to medium-sized trees or shrubs, mostly of northern temperate and boreal climates. Here is some detailed information on birch trees. To identify a tree by its bark, the first step is to look at its various parts and on the basis of these, find it out in a tree guide. Birch is the name of a certain tree of the genus Betula, in the family Betulaceae, closely related to the beech/oak family, Fagaceae. That means it is one of the first trees to colonise new (or cleared) land. After the last Ice Age, they were amongst the first species to colonise the UK. Silver Birch is widespread in Britain, Down Birch is more common in the Scottish Highlands and the others are introduced species or varieties planted in parks, gardens or urban settings for their striking bark. The dwarf birch (Betula nana) can be found in the Highlands of Scotland. The simple leaves are alternate, singly or doubly serrate, feather-veined, petiolate and stipulate. If you’re into wilderness survival, this would be a great skill for you, as it would help you to know the kind of trees whose wood you can use to make a fire or tools, or a shelter. With age, the bark develops shallow grooves, deep fissures and bosses. Wild cherry tree bark is shiny and maroon, with ‘tiger’ stripes; often also deep grooves and lenticel strips. River Birch Tree; Silver Birch Tree; Water Birch Tree; Weeping Birch Tree; Yellow Birch Tree; Birch Tree: Facts & Info on Birch Trees. Old bark peels off in ribbons. Bark and other characteristics help tree enthusiasts identify birches and distinguish between species. It grows widely across the UK preferring a drier, sandier soil then downy birch.This often means downy birch is the more common birch in Ireland and Scotland and at higher altitudes. Silver birch is a pioneer tree. Apr 6, 2018 - Explore Steve Ferrick's board "Tree Bark Identification" on Pinterest. See more ideas about tree, tree identification, tree bark. They are relatively short lived trees, which are quick to colonise open areas: they are a pioneer species. Birch trees can be identified by their distinctive bark. Depending upon the type of birch, the bark can be white, silver or variations of both, developing dark gray to black markings or horizontal streaks of gray as the tree ages; the bark on older trees is much darker than on young trees. This tree can grow to be about 40 to 80 feet tall and requires the full sun exposure only, similar to the silver birch (since it is a sub species). There are obviously many options of birch trees and other foliage hat you can go with for your home, but we believe we have picked out the best of the best that can make your house and yard look like a quaint and beautiful home. Birch species readily hybridise. Ash tree bark is smooth and pale grey in saplings.