Tree identification and classification

Basic Principles of Tree Identification

Observation skills are crucial to tree identification. This requires using your senses to examine different parts of a tree, such as its leaves, bark, branches, and overall shape.
Leaf shape is one of the most obvious characteristics to start with. Broadleaf trees have flat, broad leaves, while conifers have needle-like or scale-like leaves.
Bark texture and colour can be distinctive, varying from smooth to rough, and from grey to brown.
Examining the pattern in which leaves are attached to the branches (alternate, opposite, whorled) can provide significant clues.
A tree’s fruit or seeds can be distinctive, such as the samaras of maples, acorns of oaks, or cones of pines.
The shape, color, and arrangement of flowers are also crucial for identification.
Tree shape and size can help in identification, but remember this can be affected by the conditions in which the tree has grown.

Binomial nomenclature: every tree species has a scientifically accepted Latin name consisting of the genus and species descriptor. These are often written in italics.
Understanding families, genera, and species is crucial. A genus is a group of species that have several characteristics in common, while a species is a group of trees that are very alike and can interbreed. Families group several related genera together.
Identification guides often group trees according to their leaf type and arrangement.
Conifers and broadleaves are also often separated into softwoods and hardwoods respectively.

Most tree identification guides use a dichotomous key. This leads you through a series of ‘either-or’ questions, with each answer pointing you towards the next question until you arrive at a species.
It can be useful to have a range of guides to hand, as some may use different characteristics for identification, or have more detail on certain species.
Apps and online resources can also be helpful. These often allow you to enter characteristics and narrow down possible species through filtering.

It can be beneficial to focus on widely occurring local and native species when starting out with tree identification, and gradually expand your knowledge from there.
Recognising the impact of human activity on the species present. This includes tree planting, forestry practices, and habitat destruction.
Understanding invasive species in your area, why they are a problem, and what they look like, is also important.

Tree species can look different depending on the time of year, their environment, or their age. Practice and real-world experience is necessary to build skill in identification.
Join a local nature or tree group to learn from others’ expertise, attend workshops, or participate in ‘tree walks’.
Courses and professional training can also be beneficial, especially for deeper understanding of tree physiology, pathology, and management.