Using keys can sometimes feel like following your GPS's turn-by-turn directions (you get where you're going but don't know how you got there). These keys are more like a locator map; they attempt to get you close to where you need to be and to provide an overview as well.
So next time instead of “oh no, it's another aster”,
try, “Okay, it's one of the asters. Maybe we can figure out which one...”
Your suggestions or corrections are welcome. Please write webmaster @ namethatplant.net
A Teaching Key to Asters
Inspired by Ron Lance’s handout “Guide to the Asters of Western North Carolina,” and built on that as well as on the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas, Weakley’s Flora, and Flora of North America.
A Teaching Key to Trillium
Inspired by “Trilliums of Georgia,” Tipularia (Patrick, 2007), and built on that, as well as on the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas and Weakley’s Flora, and Flora of North America.
A Teaching Key to Violets
Inspired by Wildflowers of the Southern Mountains (Smith, 1998), and built on that, the Vascular Flora of the Carolinas, Weakley’s Flora, and “Violaceae of the Southeastern US,” Castanea (McKinney & Russell, 2002).