Tree ID
A diversity of tree species find their home on both public and private lands across Montana. Every species of tree has specific ecological conditions (for example elevation, light, soil, and moisture) in which it can grow. Learning to identify what trees are on your land is a great first step to understanding your forest's current conditions and can help guide your management decisions to reach your goals.
Tree ID Resources
Online ID Tools
Virginia Tech Dendrology hosts an online dichotomous key tool where you can figure out your unknown twig or leaf to identify species by clicking the button that best matches your plant.
Visit Virginia Tech's ID Keys Tool
Visit Virginia Tech's ID Keys Tool
Oregon State University hosts an online Dichotomous Key where you can identify your tree by clicking on characteristics that best match your mystery tree species.
What Tree is That?, by the Arbor Day Foundation, is an online step-by-step identification guide for trees of the western United States.
Visit the What Tree is That? Tool
Visit the What Tree is That? Tool
Additional Resources
- Trees and Shrubs of Montana Forest is a Montana tree and shrub identification guide pocketbook that can be purchased through Montana State University Extension.
- The Montana Natural Heritage Program's Montana Field Guide provides information on identification, ecology, distribution, and status of Montana's plants.