ENV 671a/EVST 231 () / 2024-2025

Temperate Woody Plant Taxonomy and Dendrology

To apply for this class please

1. Register so I have you in the canvas roster and you will get announcements
2. Fill out this google form before the end of registration: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRVu-sJqnwgle_PQ6Y7DId5257prXfb79R0XbNitGeOiCzlg/viewform

*If you can't see you in my canvas roster OR I don't have an application from you, you will not be considered for a spot in this class. Students are expected to take this concurrently with Forest Dynamics, a waiver can be given if you have taken similar courses in forest ecology.  


Dendrology literally translates as “the study of trees” and integrates morphology, phenology, ecology, biogeography, and the natural history of tree species. In this course you will learn how to identify the major temperate woody plant families, with a focus on North American forest species. In addition, you will learn the morphological and ecological traits used for field identification of woody plants. We will use phylogenetic systematics as the structure for understanding the evolutionary history and relationships between species. Class period will consist of practical field and laboratory skills used in plant taxonomy and field lecturing. Weather permitting, we will be in the field for the majority of class periods. We will use an ecosystem focused approach for plant identification. Besides learning how to identify species, we will discuss principles of plant ecology, biogeography, and natural history in each of the ecosystems we visit.