Plants: Classification & Terminology on this Website

When I set out to create this website, it was important to choose a consistent and regionally appropriate source for plant identification, classification, and terminology. While there are many resources available—including websites, books, and mobile apps—many are broad in scope and not tailored to our region.

Because this site focuses on the Flora of Laurel Park, I selected a reference with a strong emphasis on the southeastern United States. The primary source used here is cited below and can be accessed via the FSUS web application:

Weakley, A.S., and Southeastern Flora Team. 2025. Flora of the Southeastern United States Web App. University of North Carolina Herbarium, North Carolina Botanical Garden, Chapel Hill, U.S.A. fsus.ncbg.unc.edu. Accessed July 17, 2025.

In addition to taxonomic details and identification tools, FSUS includes information on plant status (e.g., native, non-native, invasive) and habitat. Mobile apps are also available for both iOS and Android platforms. There is also a You Tube video below to help guide the use of the FSUS apps.

For help with plant identification terminology used within FSUS, the following illustrated glossary is recommended:

Harris, J.G., and Harris, M.W. 2001. Plant Identification Terminology: An Illustrated Glossary (2nd ed.). University Press of Colorado.

Using a common and consistent system for plant classification helps us all stay on the same page. If you spot any mistakes or have questions about the terminology on this site, please don’t hesitate to reach out through the Contact form.