what trees are white in winter

White Winter Trees: A Guide to Evergreens

By Thomas WalkerFebruary 9, 2026

Picture a winter landscape, blanketed in pristine snow, and you might imagine the stark, white silhouettes of trees. But what trees are white in winter? The answer lies in a fascinating phenomenon called "lenticels."

Lenticels are small pores on the bark of trees that allow for gas exchange. In some species, these lenticels become more prominent and turn white during the winter months, creating a striking contrast against the snow. Let's delve into the world of white winter trees, exploring their species, characteristics, and the science behind their unique appearance.

Evergreens with White Bark

Evergreens, known for retaining their foliage throughout the year, also include some species with white bark that stand out in winter.

snow covered branches in the foreground with trees in the background

Evergreens with white bark typically have a higher concentration of lenticels, which become more visible and whitish due to the cold, dry winter air. This is particularly noticeable in species like the Paper Birch and the River Birch.

Paper Birch (Betula papyrifera)

The Paper Birch, native to North America, is renowned for its white, papery bark that peels in thin layers, revealing new layers of white beneath. In winter, this bark becomes even more prominent, contrasting beautifully with the snow.

Photo: White winter landscape with frosty tree at daytime in Finland : 12x9in

a lone tree stands in the middle of a snowy field with water running through it

a large white tree in the middle of a snowy field

Fun fact: The Paper Birch's bark was traditionally used by Native Americans for writing and drawing, hence its name.

River Birch (Betula nigra)

The River Birch, also native to North America, has a similar white bark to the Paper Birch, but it's smoother and less peeling. Its bark turns a silvery-white in winter, making it a stunning addition to any winter landscape.

Tip: Plant River Birch near water features in your garden to accentuate its name-sake and create a striking winter scene.

a snow covered tree in the middle of winter

snow covered trees in the middle of a field

looking up at the tops of trees in winter

Solitary Snow-Covered Birch Tree | Serene Winter Twilight Photography

a large tree covered in snow next to shrubbery

Deciduous Trees with White Winter Appearance

Deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in autumn, also include some species that appear white in winter, though not due to their bark.

In these species, the cause is more often the tree's sap or inner bark, which turns white due to the freezing and thawing cycle of winter. One such example is the Aspen.

Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)

The Quaking Aspen, another North American native, is known for its shimmering, silvery-green leaves that quake in the wind. In winter, these leaves drop, revealing the tree's white inner bark, which stands out against the snow.

a large tree covered in snow on a snowy day

a large tree covered in snow next to a dirt road on a foggy day

a large white tree next to a body of water

White Trees in Winter Season Stock Image - Image of travel, landscape: 13225447

a large tree standing in the middle of a field with frost on it's ground

a snow covered tree with white leaves on the top and bottom branches, in front of a light gray background

Did you know? Aspen trees are often found in large groves, connected by a single root system. This makes them one of the largest and oldest living organisms on Earth.

In the quiet, snow-kissed landscapes of winter, these white trees offer a unique beauty, a testament to nature's diversity and adaptability. Whether it's the white bark of evergreens or the white inner bark of deciduous trees, these winter wonders are a sight to behold. So, the next time you're out in the snow, keep an eye out for these stunning white trees.