Description

Alaska Trees and Shrubs describes and illustrates over 150 woody plants - the trees and shrubs - found in the 49th State. Included are essentially all the native trees and shrubs of Alaska, plus several introduced and naturalized woody plants. Geographically, all of Alaska is included, from the narrow southeastern coastal region along the Pacific Ocean, west and southwest through the long chain of the Aleutian Islands, and north through the interior to the Arctic Ocean; also the many islands along the coasts. This reference should also be useful in northwestern Canada, including the Yukon and Northwest Territories, and northwestern British Columbia.
This field guide was prepared for anyone desiring to learn more about Alaska's trees and shrubs and their habitats. The intended users range from those with little or no botanical background, to outdoors workers needing a comprehensive, up-to-date field reference. While technical terms have been kept to a minimum, a glossary is provided, and keys are included for all species as well as for trees and shrubs in both summer and winter condition. By using a combination of the keys, range maps, illustrations, descriptions, and habitat information, you should be able to confidently identify any tree or shrub growing in the wild in Alaska. The most difficult group are the willows (Salix), and two keys are provided, one based on features of leaves and catkins, the other based on leaves, twigs, and growth form.