Native Tree Identification

Registration Here:

September 29
October 6
October 13
October 20
October 27
November 3

Instructor: Chris Stuhlinger, Certified Arborist

Want to learn how to identify native trees by using bark, twig, flower, fruit and leaf characteristics?

This class will be a 6 week series on using combinations of diagnostic characteristics such as bark type, overall growth habit, and leaf and bud shape and arrangement to identify native tree species, at least to the genus level. The focus of the class is on both deciduous and evergreen overstory and understory trees native to northern Alabama mountains. We will cover about 10 trees per class; and the entire series will cover at least 60 species over approximately 40 genera including Maples, Oaks, Hickories, Magnolias, Pines, Hollies, Ash, and more. A few invasive species may also be covered.

We will meet in the Anderson Education Classroom in the Nature Center, but most classes will involve walking out into the garden to get familiar with the trees in person, so please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. In cases of truly unpleasant weather, the class will be held inside.

Although you are welcome to drop in for any single class, the first class will focus on terminology and what to look for to “see” the traits mentioned in commonly available field guides and botanical descriptions; so it is highly recommended to attend. Handouts will be available for those who miss a class.

Members: FREE
Non-Members: $5 per class, plus Garden Admission

Course materials available to download:
Native Tree Identification Introduction
Types of Inflorescence
Tree ID List
Tree ID Locations
Dichotomous Key Fall Colors

Tree Characteristics Week 1
Tree Characteristics Week 2
Tree Characteristics Week 3
Tree Characteristics Week 4
Tree Characteristics Week 5
Tree Characteristics Week 6

 

CLICK HERE to view the interactive tree identification map!