Exploring the Flora of Maine: A Quiz on Leaf Identification and Taxonomy

1. American White Birch

Striped bark / Dark brown color

Smooth bark / Drooping branches

Oval leaves / Light pink flowers

Alterante branch patternDouble saw-toothedShiny White peeling bark

American White Birch is characterized by its alternate branch pattern, double saw-toothed leaves, and shiny white peeling bark.

Explanation

American White Birch is characterized by its alternate branch pattern, double saw-toothed leaves, and shiny white peeling bark.

About This Quiz

Exploring The Flora Of Maine: A Quiz On Leaf Identification And Taxonomy - Quiz

Explore the diverse foliage of Maine through this focused study on common and scientific names of leaves, including their distinct characteristics. This educational content enhances understanding of plant taxonomy and ecology, tailored for enthusiasts and students in botany or environmental science.

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2. What is the scientific name for Black Cherry?

Fragaria ananassa

Rubus idaeus

Malus domestica

Alternating branchestoothed

The correct scientific name for Black Cherry is Prunus serotina, while the other options are the scientific names for Apple, Raspberry, and Strawberry respectively.

Explanation

The correct scientific name for Black Cherry is Prunus serotina, while the other options are the scientific names for Apple, Raspberry, and Strawberry respectively.

3. What are the distinguishing characteristics of a Shagbark Hickory (Carya ovata)?

Alternate branches, bipinnately compound leaves, smooth bark

Alternating branchespinnately compoundshaggy bark

Opposite branches, simple leaves, smooth bark

Whorled branches, palmately compound leaves, rough bark

Shagbark Hickories can be identified by their alternating branches, pinnately compound leaves, and shaggy bark. The incorrect answers provide combinations of characteristics that do not apply to the Shagbark Hickory species.

Explanation

4. What pattern does the Striped Maple (Acer pennsylvanicum) have?

Opposite patterntoothed and lobed

Alternate pattern, smooth edges

Clustered pattern, serrated edges

Whorled pattern, jagged edges

Striped Maple, also known as Acer pennsylvanicum, exhibits an opposite pattern with toothed and lobed leaves. This distinctive pattern sets it apart from other tree species.

Explanation

Striped Maple, also known as Acer pennsylvanicum, exhibits an opposite pattern with toothed and lobed leaves. This distinctive pattern sets it apart from other tree species.