MetroWest Leaf ID

Wilderness Rangers: Massachusetts Field Mission

Ranger:

Date:

Your mission is to find leaves from the MetroWest woods. Focus on the "Big Four" of MA: Oak, Maple, Birch, and Pine. Use the tools below to prove your identification.

Part 1: The Language of Leaves

Match the botanical term to its correct definition by writing the letter in the circle.

1. Margin

2. Lobed

3. Serrated

4. Compound

A. A leaf where the blade is divided into multiple leaflets.

B. Parts of a leaf that stick out (like fingers or earlobes).

C. Having a jagged or saw-toothed edge.

D. The outer boundary or edge of the leaf blade.

Part 2: Local Scouting

Specimen	Sketch & Description	Features (Edge, Veins)
#1
#2
#3

Part 3: The MetroWest Key

Use this MA-specific key to identify the mystery leaf.

1. Leaf is needle-like ... Go to 2

Leaf is broad and flat ... Go to 3

2. Needles grow in clusters of 5 ... Eastern White Pine

Needles grow in clusters of 3 ... Pitch Pine

3. Leaf edge has deep "finger-like" lobes ... Go to 4

Leaf edge has no lobes (simple) ... Go to 5

4. Lobes have pointy, bristled tips ... Northern Red Oak

Lobes have rounded tips (no bristles) ... White Oak

5. Edge is jagged/serrated with an uneven base ... Birch

Edge is smooth and heart-shaped ... Lilac

Mystery Specimen:

"I found a leaf that is broad and flat. It has very deep lobes that end in sharp, pointy tips with tiny hair-like bristles. It was lying under a massive tree with bark that looked like 'ski tracks'."

Final Identification:

Leafy Legends

MetroWest Leafy Legends Slides

MetroWest Leaf ID Worksheet

Leaf Relay Teacher Guide