Basics of Tree ID

LEAF Edges

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Leaf margins (the edge around the leaf) can have many different forms. Here are four of the most common types of leaf edges.

Blackgum has a smooth (or "entire") leaf edge.

American chestnut leaves have large teeth. They are "dentate". Not coincidentally, the Latin name for American chestnut is Castanea dentata.

Red maple leaf edges have small saw-like teeth. They are "serrate".

White oak leaves are lobed. The "lobes" stick out, the "sinuses" stick in (these same descriptors apply to people).