Tree and shrub leaf ID key
Pick leaf characteristics. Get a short list of likely tree or shrub species. A simple dichotomous key based on the field characters botanists actually use: leaf arrangement, leaf type, margin, and lobing.
Free · No signup · Field key for common North American trees and shrubsDescribe the leaves
Look at a healthy mid-canopy branch. Pick one option per question. Skip if unsure.
How to use a dichotomous key
This is a simplified field key based on the most reliable visible characters. For a definitive ID, photograph the leaf, twig, bark, and any flowers/fruit, then cross-reference with:
- USDA PLANTS Database - covers every native species in the US
- Our photo-based plant ID tool using the PlantNet API
- iNaturalist - photo upload + community verification
- Manual of Woody Landscape Plants by Michael Dirr - the field standard reference
The most diagnostic features for woody plants in order of reliability: flowers/fruit > bark texture > bud arrangement > leaf characters. Leaves alone won't distinguish close relatives (e.g. red oak vs scarlet oak, sugar maple vs Norway maple).
If your plant is herbaceous (not woody), this key won't help much - use the photo ID tool instead.