Northwest Trees: Identifying and Understanding the Region's Native Trees

by Stephen F. Arno

A classic, sumptuously repackaged as the perfect gift for anyone who loves nature and the Northwest's crown jewels—it's trees. Completely updated and expanded-covers more geography and 50 percent more tree species than the previous edition Provides a new, easy-to-use illustrated identification key based on the most reliable and non-technical features of each species Features the latest knowledge on the ecology and human history associated with all Northwestern trees. Over 250 exceptionally accurate drawings and historical photos bring these ancient giants to life.

Genres: Nature, Science, Field Guides, Gardening, Nonfiction, Natural History, Reference

220 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1977

Reviews

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unlike a lot of "field guide" type books, this volume goes into thorough detail on the ecology and character of each tree in a way that is very engrossing, especially if you like ethnobotany (which I do). I felt as if I could just read this cover to cover -- it's not something that you'd use on the trail to identify or look up specific trees, but rather something you'd read later on at home after you've gathered your notes for deeper understanding. The illustrations are beautiful and very detailed, but as they are just illustrations and not photos, this is another reason why I wouldn't use it as a field guide for identification. Of course in an ideal world for learning to ID plants, these would be color photographs, but I can appreciate the particular magic these illustrations have from being both very anatomically detailed and artfully composed. You can tell that only someone with a deep appreciation for the spirit of each species would make illustrations like this (props Ramona).

[Tyler Vassar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly informative and easy to read book that doubles as a functional guide out in the field. With almost every passage, there are very detailed and beautiful illustrations to help with identification and help keep the attention of some of us extremely ADHD readers. A must-read for any PNW/ BC resident with an interest in the natural world.

[Wendy Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extremely thorough and engaging guide. The artwork is so phenomenal--really helps you get a clear sense of what the trees look like.

[D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyrable enough reading that I read thru the passage for every tree that grows in my range. Very informative and has helped me better understand trees beyond their appearance. Amazing illustrations. However, for a first tree ID book, this is maybe not your best bet, as their aren't quick summaries. I think being able to ID most trees of interest first and then reading this book to deepen your knowledge and appreciation would be my recommendation.

[Gene Coatney · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book! Full of well done illustrations, the information goes well beyond the typical "here's how to identify the tree," that most guides do, (although I love them as well). Full of information, Arno's writing is a pleasure to read. This edition was reworked for the 30th anniversary of the original and looking through the first edition I can see the changes are welcome. He expands the area covered to include more of the Inland Northwest and he breaks down the information into different headings. I will defiantly be rereading this one.

[Aisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars for an excellent reference guide and interpretive writing style for all of the region's native trees! Loved learning about these trees alongside some cute anecdotes where applicable. Very readable cover to cover, and also serves as a great guide to figuring out what tree is around you on the road or trail. Excellent line drawings as well!

[Kee Onn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compendium of trees native to the Northwest, from NorCal to British Columbia. Enjoyed the many factoids associated with each tree. Now I can tell my cedars from Douglas-firs, thanks also to the beautiful illustrations within.

[Allison James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me fall in love with learning about trees. It gave the perfect amount of information on each different type of tree. Not too much and not too little for a person with zero prior knowledge about trees.

[Jeanette Beaulieu · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comprehensive guide, though I think that I could really use an in person class to supplement this. Definitely something to have on the shelf and not.just borrow from the library. "To buy" list for sure

[Fornia · Rating 5 out of 5]

hey pnw i love u and i miss u

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's rare that I find what's basically a field guide to be so engrossing that I read it cover to cover. This one is a gem.

[Fernleaf · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gorgeous book that is so much more than just a field guide. It includes vivid descriptions of the trees and detailed drawings for almost all species. The range of the second edition is expanded, covering the greater northwest instead of just cascadia. A key located in the front of the book allows for easy identification while looking at a specimen. Other information included for each species covers ecological role, habitat, and human history.

[Erik · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want an all inclusive book about trees of the Pacific Northwest and how they look during various seasons, this book is for you. The artwork and drawings are some of the best I've ever seen and I bought it partially because they were so great and am trying to improve my field drawings.

[Jared]

Beautiful black and white sketches, classic historical pictures, sound scientific foundation, with historical perspectives from both white and Native perspectives... what more can a Northwest tree nerd want?