Best Tree Field Guides of 2025

Wilson Cook Avatar
Wilson Cook
Last Updated: Apr 24, 2023

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Tree field guides are an essential tool for any nature enthusiast, hiker, or outdoor adventurer. These guides provide detailed information on various tree species, including their physical characteristics, habitat, and uses. They often feature vivid photographs or illustrations to aid in tree identification, as well as maps and charts to help locate specific species. Whether you're a seasoned botanist or a curious beginner, a tree field guide is a must-have resource for exploring and learning about the natural world around you.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover #TOP 1
National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover #TOP 2
National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
National Audubon Society Trees of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover #TOP 3
National Audubon Society Trees of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Tree Field Guides

National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

National Audubon Society
Apr 11, 2023
National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover
National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

The National Audubon Society Wildflowers of North America is an updated and comprehensive guide to identifying the wildflowers of North America. This guide is the result of a collaboration among leading scientists, scholars, and field experts, and includes nearly 5,200 full-color photographs of 853 species. The book is organized according to the latest Angiosperm Phylogeny Group IV classification system, making it easy to use. The introductory essays provide in-depth explanations of each part of a wildflower, and discuss nomenclature, invasive species, and the impacts of climate change. This beautifully designed book is a must-have for nature lovers and is an excellent reference for those interested in gardening or hiking.

National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

National Audubon Society
Apr 11, 2023
National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover
National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

The National Audubon Society Mushrooms of North America is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to the mushrooms of North America, featuring nearly 2,900 full-color photographs and detailed information on 668 species. Updated for the first time in decades, it reflects the impact of climate change and advancements in DNA sequencing. The book also includes essays on mushroom ecology, taxonomy, and the impacts of climate change. This book is a must-have for any nature lover and is an indispensable resource for identifying and learning about North American mushrooms.

National Audubon Society Trees of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

National Audubon Society
Knopf
Apr 6, 2021
National Audubon Society Trees of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides) Cover
National Audubon Society Trees of North America (National Audubon Society Complete Guides)

The National Audubon Society Trees of North America is an exceptional reference work that provides the most comprehensive and authoritative guide to the trees of North America. This updated edition includes the latest information on conservation status and the effects of climate change. The guide features nearly 2,500 full-color photographs, physical descriptions, range maps, and information on fruit, habitat, uses, and similar species. It is a must-have reference for any nature lover and is poised to become the number one guide in the field.

#TOP 4

The Official U.S. Army Illustrated Guide to Edible Wild Plants

Department of the Army
Lyons Press
Feb 1, 2019
The Official U.S. Army Illustrated Guide to Edible Wild Plants Cover
The Official U.S. Army Illustrated Guide to Edible Wild Plants

The Official U.S. Army Illustrated Guide to Edible Wild Plants is a comprehensive resource for anyone who wants to learn more about identifying and using plants for survival. With detailed information on the physical characteristics, habitat, and distribution of wild plants, as well as color photography throughout, this guide makes it easy to identify edible plants in the wild. Originally intended for Army use, this book is a valuable tool for anyone interested in the outdoors or emergency preparedness. The guide provides crucial information for safe usage of plants, including how to prepare them for eating and awareness of any dangerous properties they might have. Overall, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to learn more about wild plants and their uses.

Spanish and English Workbook for Preschoolers, Kindergarteners, 1st Graders:: ABCs, Fun Handwriting Tracing Practice, Sight Words, Color By Number Activities for Ages 3-5 (4)

Fun Forever, Learning Is
Aug 4, 2020
Spanish and English Workbook for Preschoolers, Kindergarteners, 1st Graders:: ABCs, Fun Handwriting Tracing Practice, Sight Words, Color By Number Activities for Ages 3-5 (4) Cover
Spanish and English Workbook for Preschoolers, Kindergarteners, 1st Graders:: ABCs, Fun Handwriting Tracing Practice, Sight Words, Color By Number Activities for Ages 3-5 (4)

This workbook is a great tool for parents and teachers looking to teach preschoolers, kindergarteners, and first graders the basics of English and Spanish. With fun activities like color by number and handwriting tracing, this workbook makes learning engaging and interactive. The inclusion of a cute dog character, Indonesia, as a learning companion adds an extra layer of excitement for young learners. The workbook is perfect for use in the classroom, homeschool, or during school breaks. Overall, this workbook is a valuable resource for anyone looking to help young children develop their language skills.

North Woods Survival: A Wilderness Adventure Thriller (North Woods Survival Series)

Walker, Jess
Apr 10, 2021
North Woods Survival: A Wilderness Adventure Thriller (North Woods Survival Series) Cover
North Woods Survival: A Wilderness Adventure Thriller (North Woods Survival Series)

North Woods Survival: A Wilderness Adventure Thriller is a thrilling account of a teenage boy's survival in the Canadian wilderness after his plane crashes. The story takes readers on a journey of survival, where the protagonist faces various challenges, including finding water, shelter, food, and fighting off predators. The book is beautifully illustrated and provides practical survival techniques, making it a must-read for wilderness enthusiasts. The author's attention to detail in describing the survival techniques and the protagonist's mental and physical struggles makes this book a unique and compelling read. Overall, North Woods Survival is an excellent addition to any outdoor survival skills book collection.

#TOP 7

Texas Edible Wild Plant Foraging: Beginner Foraging Field Guide for Finding, Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Food

Walsh, Willow
Publishing, Littlebook
Jun 12, 2022
Texas Edible Wild Plant Foraging: Beginner Foraging Field Guide for Finding, Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Food Cover
Texas Edible Wild Plant Foraging: Beginner Foraging Field Guide for Finding, Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Food

Texas Edible Wild Plant Foraging is a beginner's guide to identifying and harvesting wild edible plants in Texas. The book provides detailed profiles of 40 different plants, complete with identifying features, harvesting tips, and QR codes for color images. It also covers ethical foraging and safety equipment to protect against poisonous plants. The author includes a comprehensive plant identification guide, helpful resources, practical methods, and expert advice. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the wilderness and sourcing a diverse range of edibles straight from nature.

#TOP 8

If Trees Could Talk: Life Lessons from the Wisdom of the Woods

Worton, Holly
Tribal Publishing
Apr 12, 2019
If Trees Could Talk: Life Lessons from the Wisdom of the Woods Cover
If Trees Could Talk: Life Lessons from the Wisdom of the Woods

If Trees Could Talk: Life Lessons from the Wisdom of the Woods by Holly Worton is a compelling book that encourages readers to reconnect with nature and tap into the wisdom of trees. Worton shares her experiences of communicating with trees through silent, telepathic communication, and how it has helped her connect with her true self. The book offers a series of experiments to help readers connect with nature and discover the deep wisdom and healing that trees can offer. This book is perfect for nature lovers who want to deepen their relationship with themselves and the natural world.

#TOP 9

Reverse Coloring Fantastical Forests: Manage Stress and Anxiety Drawing the Lines to Each Magical Tree, Flower and Landscape (Reverse Coloring Splash of Paint)

Poe, Joel
Apr 17, 2023
Reverse Coloring Fantastical Forests: Manage Stress and Anxiety Drawing the Lines to Each Magical Tree, Flower and Landscape (Reverse Coloring Splash of Paint) Cover
Reverse Coloring Fantastical Forests: Manage Stress and Anxiety Drawing the Lines to Each Magical Tree, Flower and Landscape (Reverse Coloring Splash of Paint)

If you're looking for a fun and relaxing way to unleash your creativity and manage stress, "Reverse Coloring Fantastical Forests" is the book for you. This reverse coloring book features 36+ beautiful scenes of magical trees, flowers, and landscapes for you to draw outlines and add your own details, textures, and shading. The book is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and each scene is printed on a single-sided page to prevent bleed-through and allow you to remove and frame your artwork. This book is perfect for nature and art lovers, those who need relaxation and stress management, or as a gift for friends and family.

#TOP 10

Wild Edible Plants of California: Locate, Identify, Store and Prepare your Foraged Finds

Warner, Shannon
Mar 9, 2023
Wild Edible Plants of California: Locate, Identify, Store and Prepare your Foraged Finds Cover
Wild Edible Plants of California: Locate, Identify, Store and Prepare your Foraged Finds

"Wild Edible Plants of California" is the ultimate guide to foraging and enjoying the bounty of the California landscape. It covers all of California's best wild edible plants, from everyday favorites like blackberries and elderberries to lesser-known gems like miner's lettuce. The book provides comprehensive coverage of edible plants in California, expert guidance on safely and responsibly foraging, and delicious recipes for incorporating wild edible plants into meals. The author's emphasis on sustainability and ethical considerations make this book unique. Overall, it's an excellent reference guide for anyone looking to explore and enjoy the natural food of California.

Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there an app to identify trees?

Leafsnap is a new free app that identifies trees. Go for a walk, take a shot of a leaf and this little wonder will identify its tree and give all kinds of information about it. The app is a result of a collaboration between Columbia University, the University of Maryland and the Smithsonian Institution.

2. How do I identify a tree by its leaves?

The shape of a leaf can also give clues when identifying broadleaf tree species. Common leaf identification shapes include ovate (egg shaped), lanceolate (long and narrow), deltoid (triangular), obicular (round) and cordate (heart shaped).

3. What tree is that book?

The book, “What Tree Is That?”, is available for a $5 donation to the nonprofit tree-planting organization. “What Tree Is That?” is described as a fun, easy-to-use tree identification guide. It features hand-drawn botanical illustrations highlighting the distinctive characteristics of many tree species.

4. What tree is that book?

The Arbor Day Foundation's What Tree Is That? is a unique tree field guide that uses a step-by-step approach to identify common trees. The scientifically illustrated, 164-page book helps readers identify more than 200 unique trees from across the United States and Canada.

5. What are field guides used for?

As used in this site, a field guide is a small, lightweight book used to identify plants, animals, or other objects. It is designed to be used outdoors and usually contains many illustrations, whether drawings or photographs, and limited text.

Editor's Notes

During our tree field guide research, we found 314 tree field guide products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 8,685 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tree field guides list. We found that most customers choose tree field guides with an average price of $19.69.

Written by
Wilson Cook Avatar

Wilson Cook is a talented writer who has an MFA in creative writing from Williams College and has published more than 50 books acquired by hundreds of thousands of people from various countries by now. He is an inveterate reading lover as he has read a vast amount of books since childhood.