How to use the key to identify an unknown leafy twig

To use the key, you have to answer three questions about your leafy twig.

FIRST

Are the leaves simple? or compound?

SECOND

If the leaves are simple, are they linear? or roundish? or lobed? or needle-like? or spiny?

Or, if the leaves are compound, are they trifoliate? or pinnate? or palmate?

THIRD

How are the leaves arranged on the stem (do not look at leaves at the tip of the twig, but lower down)?

Are they alternate or opposite? Simple or compound

	Alternate	Opposite
Simple
Compound

Now you understand these terms, you are ready to find out what your species is.

Alternatively, you can practice on a sample of Elder. Click here for that demonstration.