Trees of Manitoba

Although many trees may look alike, a closer inspection of their leaves and twigs will reveal their character and distinctiveness.
In Manitoba, there are 24 native trees. While some are seen only in localized areas, the majority are within a half-day’s drive from most homes. In Manitoba, this field guide will help readers understand what features to look for in order to easily identify all 24 native Manitoba trees.
When identifying trees, it is important to note that not all members of the same species will look alike. For example, trees growing in dense forest will shed their lower branches. They will be more pole-like and narrower than trees growing in open areas. Some trees that grow tall in one area may hardly develop into more than a shrub in another. The shape of a tree alone, therefore is not always the best guide for identification. Leaf shape, bud growth, bark, flowers, and cones should also be used. As well, very young trees have different forms, leaf stages, etc. from their mature characteristics.
In this guide, a tree is generally defined as a woody plant having one well-defined trunk and a recognizable crown. It must grow to a maximum height of 4.5 metres at maturity and have a trunk diameter of not less than five centimetres.

For tips on how to read and use this guide, scroll through the guide to the icon that is labelled: 'Using the Field Guide'

Acknowledgement
Manitoba sustainable development thanks Mr.Oswald, Mr.Nokes and the Canadian Forest Service for producing the original publication of the field guide in 1979.
The Department also thanks Indigenous Languages of Manitoba Inc. for providing Cree, Dakota, Dene, Michif, Ojibwe, and Ojibwe-Cree translations in 2019.
In some instances, indigenous language translations are unavailable. For example, Dene (a language spoken in the north), does not have a translation for white pine, which grows in the extreme south east corner of Manitoba.
So you need more information or have an edit for the Field guide? Please leave us a message on the Provincial tree line: 204-945-7866 or send an email to: treeline@gov.mb.ca less ↑