Identification of Native Shrubs & Woody Vines

Join us for an engaging and educational exploration of the native shrubs and woody vines of the Southeastern United States. This two-hour adult education class is designed to sharpen your plant identification skills through both classroom instruction and hands-on fieldwork in the Garden.

We’ll begin with an hour in the classroom, where participants will learn how to use a dichotomous key for plant identification. The second hour will take place outdoors, where you’ll apply what you’ve learned to identify native species in their natural setting.

This course will primarily use Native Shrubs and Woody Vines of the Southeast (1989) by Leonard Foote and Samuel B. Jones, Jr., but attendees are welcome to bring their own preferred field guides or keys.

Program Registration

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About Your Instructor

Toby Gray has served as the Plant Recorder at Huntsville Botanical Garden since October 2022. A native of North Carolina, he brings more than 16 years of experience in residential landscape installation, along with a deep passion for native plants. Toby holds a master’s degree in Landscape Architecture and a PhD in Geography, both from Mississippi State University. A dedicated amateur botanist and former president of the Mississippi Native Plant Society, he brings a wealth of knowledge and contagious enthusiasm to every class he teaches.

As a nonprofit organization, the Garden relies on your support—proceeds from events and programs directly benefit our conservation initiatives and mission-driven efforts. Thank you for helping us grow a greener future.

Please note: This event is rain or shine and non-refundable.