Tree Twig Identification

The twigs of trees can be helpful in trying to identify the species.

Examining the twigs of trees can be a useful way to determine species. While you may not be able to definitely classify a given tree by a twig alone, associated traits may make the difference.

Leaves

Evergreen twigs offer the benefit of year-round leaf examination.

The presence of leaves can aid tree-twig identification. For evergreens like conifers and certain broad-leaved species, there should be foliage throughout the year, and you can use it to distinguish different types. Deciduous trees in winter or the dry season may be entirely bare.

Structure

Consider outstanding features of the twig's structure. Hawthorns and certain legumes are armed with thorns, for example. Pay attention to shape, too: An American basswood's twigs are zigzag in profile, while an American smoketree's are straighter.

Buds and Flowers

Characteristics of bud and flower can help you classify a particular tree.

Even in winter, twig buds are often diagnostic for deciduous trees. Slippery and American elms may be distinguished by the downiness of the former's buds. When a flowering tree is in full bloom, pay attention to petal color and arrangement.

Fruits

The berries of some kinds of hawthorns may remain on the twigs through the winter.

In certain trees like hawthorns, fruits that develop in late summer or autumn may persist on the branch through part of the winter, making for useful identification aids.

References

• "The Sibley Guide to Trees"; D.A. Sibley; 2009
• "Winter Tree Finder"; M.T. Watts, T. Watts; 1970

Resources

• The Nature Conservancy in Indiana: Winter Tree Identification
• Virginia Tech: Twig Key