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Tree identification

What's the easiest way to identify a tree? A dichotomous key of course. A dichotomous key is a tool that allows anyone to determine the identity of items in the natural world such as wildflowers, mammals, reptiles, rocks, fish, and trees. Dichotomous means "dividing into two parts" so the dichotomous keys below will always give only two choices for each step until you have identified the tree.

Dichotomous tree keys

• EEK! - Interactive tree key
• Online Tree ID key, UW-Stevens Point LEAF [exit DNR]
• Online Key to the Trees of Wisconsin, UW-Green Bay [exit DNR]

Tree and plant identification guides

• Forest Trees of Wisconsin: How to Know Them [PDF] - A paper copy of the guide is also available for order on Education Connection [PDF]

Smartphone apps

Leafsnap [exit DNR] is an electronic field guide developed by researchers from Columbia University, University of Maryland, and the Smithsonian Institution. This free mobile app uses visual recognician software to help identify tree species from photographs of their leaves.

The Arbor Day Foundation has also developed a tree identification guide for smartphones called: What Tree is That? [exit DNR]

Key to Woody Plants of Wisconsin Forests [exit DNR] - This key provides an easy-to-use tool for identifying Wisconsin trees, shrubs and vines. The key includes 85 species of trees and 57 species of shrubs and vines that are native to Wisconsin or exotic and invasive.

Plant a tree!

• Looking guidance from a forester? Search the Forestry Assistance Locator.
• Find out how to order tree seedlings.
• Discover Arbor Day celebration ideas (or visit the Arbor Day Foundation [exit DNR]).