Alaska Trees and Shrubs

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful reference
Review: This book contains a tremendous amount of information. Most of this book comprises detailed descriptions of each tree and shrub that grows in Alaska. Each write-up includes a physical description of the plant (including description of various seasonal forms), description of uses of the plant by humans and wild animals, description of the plant's range (which is illustrated on a range map for each taxon); and the names of closely-related plants. And every write-up is accompanied by an excellent, detailed black-and-white illustration of parts of the plant (most are drawn actual size). Given all of this information, I had no trouble identifying most of the trees and shrubs that I have encountered in Alaska. And I am no botanist.

Includes an introduction generally describing the vegetation zones of Alaska, and a key to identifying trees based mainly upon characteristics of their leaves. This reference is still cited in the academic literature today; and although it lacks color photographs (and plants are organized taxonomically rather than by color or other feature) I believe it would be an excellent reference for the non-expert who is interested in learning about the trees and shrubs of the arctic and sub-arctic Alaskan environments. Highly recommended!

Rating:
Summary: A wonderful reference
Review: This book contains a tremendous amount of information. Most of this book comprises detailed descriptions of each tree and shrub that grows in Alaska. Each write-up includes a physical description of the plant (including description of various seasonal forms), description of uses of the plant by humans and wild animals, description of the plant's range (which is illustrated on a range map for each taxon); and the names of closely-related plants. And every write-up is accompanied by an excellent, detailed black-and-white illustration of parts of the plant (most are drawn actual size). Given all of this information, I had no trouble identifying most of the trees and shrubs that I have encountered in Alaska. And I am no botanist.

Includes an introduction generally describing the vegetation zones of Alaska, and a key to identifying trees based mainly upon characteristics of their leaves. This reference is still cited in the academic literature today; and although it lacks color photographs (and plants are organized taxonomically rather than by color or other feature) I believe it would be an excellent reference for the non-expert who is interested in learning about the trees and shrubs of the arctic and sub-arctic Alaskan environments. Highly recommended!