The Kirby Key plant identification resource can be used in two ways: First, you can use it to identify an unknown plant by following the choices that lead you to the species information page for the plant that you are trying to identify. Select Use the Key on the menu bar to see your first choice.
Second, you can use it to find information about a plant whose name you already know. Instead of proceeding through all of the choices, you may go to the Species List and click on the name of the plant of interest.
Each page in the key contains two (or sometimes three or four) alternative features, using both words and images. Merely choose the word or image that best fits your plant. As further aid, many technical botanical terms are highlighted and can be clicked to view a definition and/or a picture. By choosing the correct links, you will ultimately arrive at the page that contains a picture and information about the plant that you are trying to identify. If you make a mistake or make the wrong choices, simply use the "back" button on your browser to return to the previous page or start a new search by returning to the Key.
We have compiled a large list of wildflowers, grasses and trees found in the Kirby Park Natural Area but there may be some species that we have missed, so we apologize if the plant that you wished to identify is not included at this time. If you know about a plant we should add E-mail us.
We hope you will find the Key easy to use and understand. Good Luck!
If you would like to learn more about this project and how the key was developed, click here for the Project History.