Forest Trees of Illinois (Third Edition)

Through clear photographs and hand‑drawn illustrations, this reference helps listeners picture the familiar and the subtle trees that line Illinois’s forests, parks, and backyards. The author walks you through the basics of tree form—from single trunks to crown shape—explaining how size and geography can blur the line between trees and shrubs. Along the way you’ll learn the difference between common names that change from town to town and the stable Latin names that connect every species worldwide.

The heart of the work is a series of season‑specific identification keys, guiding you step by step from leaf shape to bark texture, whether you’re out in spring’s fresh green or winter’s bare silhouettes. An illustrated glossary defines the most important leaf and twig characteristics, making it easier to follow the keys on the fly. Whether you’re a casual hiker, a backyard naturalist, or a student of botany, the guide offers a friendly way to deepen appreciation for the trees that shape Illinois’s landscape.