Conifers are trees that bear their seeds in cones. When you find a conifer that you don't recognize, ask yourself some questions:
- How are the cones on this tree different from other cones I have seen? Are they long? Curved? Sticky?
- Are the leaves on this conifer needle-like or do they look more like scales?
- Are these needles long or short? Do they feel soft or prickly? Do they grow in clumps, bundles, or all by themselves?
You can use the differences that you notice to identify your conifer. Look closely at your tree and choose the description that fits it best. Click on that drawing to go to the next question. Don't worry if you make a mistake, you can go back and try again.
Note: This key includes all of the Wisconsin's native conifers and a few other common conifers. It doesn't include all the conifers that might be planted in yards and parks.