Time to ID!

To start at the most general level, the first step is to determine which category your plant falls under. 

Is it a... 

• Woody plant

• Aquatic plant

• Grass-like plant

• Ferns 

• Flowering non-woody plant

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The leaf shape, size and other surface characteristics are often the most helpful features to identify an unknown plant. 

For instance leaf attachment can be broken into three categories: 

• Alternate - one unique leaf at each leaf node and usually alternate their direction along the stem

• Opposite - have a pair of leaves at each node

• Whorled -  three or more leaves attached at each node at the stem

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The texture and color of the bark gives a lot of insight into the plant. Tree bark can range from smooth and papery to scaly and furrowed.

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It's also important to take into account if there are thorns, bumps or any other type of miscellaneous features! 

If there are flowers (most angiosperms), it's important to note characteristics like color, smell, petal amount and shape.

Be sure to note if the plant has any fruit like acorns, berries or samaras.