HOR 228 Spring Plant Identification

Lecture Hours: 3
Lab Hours: 2
Credits: 4

Identifies species and varieties of woody landscape plants that exhibit seasonal highlights in spring. Stresses scientific naming of plants. Presents plant identification techniques that rely on recognition of form, structure, and visual details of leaves and flowers. Considers cultural requirements for individual species and varieties.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Identify species and varieties of woody ornamental plants by scientific and common name, focusing on plants with outstanding foliage and flower characteristics in spring.
Classify spring seasonal plant material based on a visual inspection of foliage and flower characteristics.
Describe leaf and flower characteristics using commonly accepted botanical terms.
List important cultural requirements for individual species and varieties.
Spell all scientific and common names correctly.

Content Outline

Plant Naming
- Scientific names
- Common names
Horticultural and Botanical Plant Classification
- Woody plant families
- Woody plant genera
- Woody plant species
  - Varieties and subspecies
  - Cultivars
  - Hybrids
- Classification by growth habit or physiological characteristics
Plant Morphological Characteristics
- Leaves
  - Type
  - Arrangement
  - Venation
  - Shape
  - Bases, margins, and apices
  - Emerging foliage characteristics
- Stems and Buds
- Flowers
  - Floral structures
  - Floral form and symmetry
  - Floral arrangement
  - Pollination systems
  - Flowering time
- Fruits
  - Fleshy
  - Dry
  - Dehiscent
  - Indehiscent
Identification of Individual Species and Cultivars
- Scientific name
- Common name
- General description
- Special attributes in spring
  - Flowers
  - New growth
  - Fruit
- Hardiness and heat tolerance
- Cultural requirements in the nursery and landscape