Georgia Native Leaf Collection: Resources for a School Project

Project Requirements

Your grandson needs 20 native Georgia tree leaves, each identified with taxonomic keys, scientific and common names, descriptions of both tree and leaf, and a U.S. range map. You're located in Rome, GA.

Recommended Online Resources

• OPLIN Tree Identification – Interactive keys for Ohio trees, but many species overlap with Georgia.
• University of Georgia Extension – Offers publications on native trees, including identification guides and range maps.
• Georgia Forestry Commission – Provides a "Native Trees of Georgia" guide and local forester contacts.
• USDA PLANTS Database – Authoritative range maps and taxonomic data for every native species.

Local Expert Help

Call the Georgia Forestry Commission's Rome office (or your county Extension agent). Their foresters can supply a Georgia-specific dichotomous key and may even assist with field identification.

Tips for Success

1. Collect leaves in late spring/early summer when foliage is mature.
2. Press leaves between newspaper under weight for 1–2 weeks.
3. Label each specimen immediately with date, location, and tree ID.
4. Use the USDA PLANTS "Characteristics" page for each species to get concise descriptions.