Identifying Trees in Winter

Most people can tell an ash from a oak, a maple or birch simple by looking at the leaves but what about in winter? This is not only a gratifying bit of fun for the more experienced but a rewarding time for a beginner to commence studying trees. For a start: note the form of a tree - its silhouette, then observe its habit - its branching characteristics then the texture and colour of its trunk. Attention should be turned to the twigs which are not simply bits of stick; they will be smooth or if there are raised lenticels, rougher and each section is separated by a bend or a swelling and at each of these points, there is a bud and it is important to observe whether these are opposite pairs or on alternate sides of the twig so it 'zigzags'. Over the years many of these buds will have extended at an angle to the twig and this side shoot will later become a new twig which means that those trees with opposite buds will have opposite pairs of twigs and those with alternate buds, alternate twigs which will be the same for other species in that genus so you can begin make some useful lists. In some trees such as fruit trees like apples or cherries as mature twigs develop, some produce several knobbly, condensed side shoots each bearing buds which produce the several leaves and flowers in the following year so the whole side shoot position is relevant.

Having established the position of the buds, it is important to assess if they are clasping, that is, closely parallel to the axis of the twig - see hornbeam or spreading like the beech which is about 45 degrees from twig. Those buds less than about 3mm are assumed to be spreading - not clasping so bud size is a good observation to make but be careful that these are on normal twigs - not sucker growth which will be unrepresentative of the typical twigs. Finally, and it is best to have a x10 hand lens for this, look at the bud surface for leaf scales which may be numerous and overlapping as in oak or so few it gives a smooth appearance like plane trees. Note the colour too and if it is sticky like the horse chestnut. This tree has a well known leaf scar which most children know but other trees have distinctive leaf scars too and winter is a good time to get to know them. Give winter tree identification try, you will enjoy it!

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