Plant Species Identification Quiz

What characteristic might be used to differentiate between plant species in a dichotomous key?

• The number of branches they produce

• The geographic location where they are found

• The amount of sunlight they receive

• The shape of their leaves

Which tree does the unknown leaf come from?

• Salix nigra

• Quercus laceyi

• Sophora secundiflora

• Ungnadia speciosa

1. This dichotomous key identifies some conifers.

2. Based on the key, which of these best describes the leaves and cones of the longleaf pine?

• Needle-like straight leaves that are mostly 25 cm long and found in cluster of three; no thorns on cones

• Flattened and scale-like leaves that are mostly over 25 cm long; soft and leathery cones

• Needle-like straight leaves with a length of 25 cm that are mostly found in clusters of five; thorny cones

• Leaves with a length of 25 cm that are found in clusters of more than five; no thorns on cones

Students are using the dichotomous key for leaves below to help identify native trees. Which of the following is classified as Holly?

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Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Describe how characteristics of leaves can be used to classify trees using a dichotomous key.