Tree more bare with bark initially removed (5)

I believe the answer is:

alder

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'tree' is the definition.
(alder is a kind of tree)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for alder that I've seen before include "Forward movement" , "Tree whose bark is used in tanning" , "Tree or shrub of the birch family" , "Shrub or tree with cone-like fruits" , "Tree akin to the birch" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.

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