A fake Christmas tree may be more popular, but here’s a new reason to appreciate the real thing: Researchers have identified a group of anti-inflammatory compounds in the bark of the Scotch pine — ...

Mary Jo DiLonardo has worked in print, online, and broadcast journalism for 25 years and covers nature, health, science, and animals. Young trees sometimes have smooth bark that's unbroken by ridges.

At this season, one of the most important features of trees and shrubs really shines: bark. “In winter, with the leaves gone, it’s more exposed, and we can really see it,” says Kris Bachtell, vice ...