T.E.R:R.A.I.N - Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network

Cork wings on trees

The name cork-wing has been applied to ridges of corky substance extending lengthwise along the young stems of certain trees and woody shrubs.
One very prominent example is that of Liquidambar styraciflua, a tree which attains a large size, the young branches of which are ridged with this cork formation, so that the tree, when standing leafless, has the appearance of being supplied with a set of troughs to conduct off the water.
This peculiar habit of growth is exhibited by several other species of trees, which, however, differ less in appearance from the ordinary bark-producing tree. Such are certain maples, oaks, elms and a few others.





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