This site’s tree ID articles are meant to be a quick reference, enabling you to find the most obvious distinguishing features that divide one species from another.
They list the most common trees in eastern North America, and many of them occur in the West as well, but less widespread species are not covered. Certain groups are described in a general way, but particular species—such as the different types of Ash or Sumac—are not necessarily broken down.
A field guide is helpful if you wish to delve more deeply into a knowledge of trees. I have two tree field guides, each with its own virtues.
When I was first studying trees, the National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Trees was extremely helpful because it has photos of leaves and bark for each species. Although bark is quite variable, the photos give a general impression that description cannot provide.
Once I got past the basics, I began to use the Peterson Field Guide to Trees and Shrubs more often. It relies on drawings that do not convey the superficial appearance of leaves that well, but having learned the most common species through the Audubon guide, I found that the Peterson’s gives minute details that help in distinguishing between similar varieties. The discussions of bud scales, leaf scars, bundle scars, and the like were merely irritating until I was motivated to move deeper in my familiarity with the trees.
Another advantage of the Peterson’s is that it covers shrubs and vines, unlike the Audubon guide, which does, however, feature photos of distinctive flowers, fruits, and autumn foliage.
Nowadays I use both books for reference and find them both invaluable.
See Identifying Features of Trees for more information on tree identification.
