CATS New Mexico Tree Identification 5

Question 1

Which New Mexico native tree has stiff, spine-tipped leaflets and is classified as a legume, often found in Chihuahuan Desert washes?

Accepted Answer

Catclaw acacia

Answer

Catclaw acacia (Senegalia greggii) has tiny pinnately compound leaves and recurved cat-claw-like spines along the branches, common in southern New Mexico desert washes.

Question 2

What is the most reliable way to distinguish a young Douglas-fir from a true fir (Abies) in New Mexico?

Accepted Answer

Douglas-fir has cones hanging downward with protruding 3-pronged bracts; true firs have upright cones that disintegrate on the tree

Answer

Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) cones hang downward and have distinctive three-pronged bracts peeking out between scales; true fir (Abies) cones stand upright and shatter when mature.

Question 3

Netleaf hackberry (Celtis reticulata) is commonly found in New Mexico canyon bottoms. Its leaves are distinctive because they:

Accepted Answer

Have a strongly asymmetrical base and prominent netted veins on the underside

Answer

Netleaf hackberry leaves have a notably unequal base and a conspicuous network of raised veins on the lower surface — the 'netleaf' characteristic.

Question 4

Which high-elevation New Mexico tree has needles in bundles of 5, a gnarled twisted growth form, and is known for extreme wind and cold tolerance above timberline?

Accepted Answer

Bristlecone pine

Answer

Rocky Mountain bristlecone pine (Pinus aristata) grows at or above timberline in New Mexico's highest ranges, has 5 needles per bundle with white resin flecks, and lives for thousands of years.

Question 5

A New Mexico tree with alternate, simple, very large leaves (up to 12 inches), fuzzy undersides, and pyramidal clusters of white flowers is most likely:

Accepted Answer

Bigleaf maple

Answer

Bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) can occur in moist canyon refugia; its enormous 5-lobed leaves — the largest of any maple — and white flower clusters are unmistakable.

(CATS) Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Practice Test

(CATS) Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Practice Test

CATS New Mexico Tree Identification 5