Option 3

Learn how to identify trees on your own

Watch this video

Keep in mind, you won't be able to go out and start identifying trees after watching this video, but it's a good place to start! You will need some additional tree identification resources to help. We've listed a few below...

My go-to resource

Once you learn some of the key terms and identification characteristics, you can use books like these to confirm the species of tree you have in your yard, school or neighborhood.

A newer resource

This tree identification book is designed for beginners with an easy-to-use key featuring 140 tree species.

Available through the UF/IFAS Bookstore

Use citizen science

iNaturalist is one of many citizen science applications available. Once you create an account, you can upload or snap a picture of any species (plant or animal) and the image database will help narrow down your potential species. Eventually your image will be confirmed by a specialists (if the image displays enough characteristics for identification).

Important Note: For the purposes of this activity, exact tree identification isn't necessary. If you can, narrow it down to an oak, pine or palm, or take note of:


  • The size of your tree (small, medium or large)

  • Leaf persistence: Is the tree deciduous (loses its leaves) or evergreen (always green)?

  • Leaf type: Broadleaf (wide, flat leaves), Conifer (needle-like leaves) or Palm (feather or fan-like leaves)