All Trees Look Alike - Or Do They?

Most of us accept the fact that there are trees around and, to the uninterested, all may pretty much look the same. This may be all you'll ever want to know about the botanical properties of trees. They have leaves and bark and roots and limbs, there are several in the yard, and it's time for lunch.

But the parts of a tree - leaves, flowers, bark, tree shape, and fruit - can all be very different depending on each tree species and you have to know this to identify a tree. Tree characteristics are unique to certain species, and in combination, can make quick work of identification. Just as parts can be used to identify individual tree species, other characteristics like colors, shapes, smells, and even taste will often help in the final naming of a particular tree.

But to be able to do this, you must have some knowledge of tree parts and characteristics which is a very important part of being able to identify it. I have prepared a review of all of these tree "markers" for both the alternate-leaved trees and the opposite-leaved trees to help start or refresh your knowledge of tree anatomy and identification. Knowing the name of a tree is a special treat when seeing a forest for the very first time by knowing its trees.

• A Quick and Easy Way to Identify 50 Common Native North American Trees

Live Oak on the Texas Capitol Grounds - Photo by Steve Nix, Licensed to About.com