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An indispensable illustrated source of information for hundreds of species of North American trees This authoritative reference on native and non-native trees of North America, by Smithsonian veteran W. John Kress, provides an unprecedented appraisal of more than 325 common species. More than a field guide, it includes ● over 300 range maps and 3,000 photographs of leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and bark; ● an in-depth introduction to the biology of trees, their value, structure, evolution, classification, ecology, and conservation; ● descriptions of each species, organized by genus and family; ● a reflection on the consequences of environmental change on the health of trees, now and in the future; ● a presentation, based on the latest technologies, of North American trees in a planetary and evolutionary perspective. Smithsonian Trees of North America, ten years in the making, marries science and art to provide an insightful and compassionate exploration of the diversity, structure, form, and beauty of trees.

Includes wide range of natural history and facts about types of forests, tree species, tree biology, and more Full-color illustrations throughout and Seeds of Knowledge sidebars enliven and deepen understanding of tree science From the award-winning author of Earth Almanac In Knowing the Trees, naturalist and outdoor educator Ken Keffer explores our forests with both precision and charm. He offers essential context for understanding scientific knowledge and discoveries about trees and forest ecology, informed by rich anecdotes and specific examples from across the US.Modeled after the life cycle of a tree, this beautifully illustrated guide showcases a wide range of topics, including unique reproductive strategies, the wonders of seed dispersal, vast underground networks of roots, the importance of photosynthesis, treetop canopies, how snags and nurse logs contribute to the future of a forest, connections among other species throughout the habitat, benefits of forest bathing, and so much more. Keffer also makes the convincing case that our health depends on the health of trees and being able to see the forest and the trees.