Arbor Day Foundation

The Arbor Day Foundation’s What Tree Is That? is a unique tree field guide that uses a step-by-step approach to identify common trees. The scientifically illustrated, 164-page book helps readers identify more than 200 unique trees from across the United States and Canada. With just a few leaves from a tree, this easy-to-use field guide uses a series of questions and pictures to help classify the tree in question. This guide has proven to offer the simplest method for identifying trees, simple enough for a child to use yet often relied upon by tree experts.

What Tree Is That? is a unique field guide that helps you identify the common trees of the United States and Canada using a step-by-step approach. Learn to recognize more than 250 tree varieties through their leaf margins and textures, the arrangement of leaves on twigs, pods or nuts, and trunk bark while referring to this scientifically illustrated, 164-page book.

As you compare specific characteristics to original botanical illustrations, this easy-to-use manual guides you to a conclusion by posing a series of questions. Using the guide’s proven method, you’ll be able to distinguish hundreds of different tree varieties whether you’re young or old, an amateur or a professional. 

Recognized artist Karina I. Helm created original illustrations for each of the trees included. A graduate of the prestigious University of California – Santa Cruz science illustration certificate program, Helm satisfies both aesthetics and accuracy in the botanical images she renders. Her long-term associations with members of the nation’s scientific community contributed to the brilliant precision of Helm’s designs.

The What Tree Is That? guide is a practical educational tool containing both common and scientific names. In addition to artistic depictions, it provides specific measurements in both inches and centimeters. Equipped with a durable, water-resistant cover, this 8 ½ x 4” companion guide slips easily into your pocket for quick reference on your hikes.