How to Use This Book

This book describes the most common native tree species found in Virginia’s forests. Native trees are considered to be those present in Virginia before the time of European settlement. Natives are adapted to Virginia growing conditions, benefit native insects and wildlife, and form a critical part of natural plant communities. This book is intended to be a tool for tree identification, rather than a comprehensive listing or technical manual. Therefore, non-technical descriptions have been used whenever possible. The basic keys provide a quick identification tool, minimizing the time spent searching for an unknown tree. The species descriptions are good for general reference, but individual trees may vary within a species. For example, tree height at maturity may vary a great deal because of the growing site, tree health, genetics, competition and other factors. Some more complete resources for tree identification are listed in the bibliography, and numerous other books and online resources are available to enhance your study. At the back of this book, you can also find a list of State Forests and other places to study trees.

In this text, the most accepted common name is the primary heading for each species, with additional common names listed below it. The scientific name, which is consistent worldwide and most useful for true identification, is listed in the format of the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature: genus, species and author citation. The species’ native range is indicated by the shaded section of the map; however, it is possible to find almost any tree growing outside its native range. For those desiring to learn more technical terms or clarify definitions, a glossary is included.

Flowering Dogwood