A new series of beginner-friendly cribs helping people get started identifying the North East’s wildflowers.
Identifying wildflowers takes time. While many of us enjoy poring over field guides or working through identification keys (I certainly do!), not everyone finds that approach appealing — especially beginners. In fact, these traditional tools can often feel overwhelming at first glance.
When I was just starting out in botany, I definitely appreciated a simpler approach: practical tips, clear visuals, and guidance that didn’t assume too much prior knowledge. That’s exactly what inspired me to create a series of beginner-friendly resources to help people start identifying wildflowers — especially those native to the North East.
These materials are tailored for the region, though you may come across a few species that aren’t yet found here. Chances are, it’s only a matter of time before they arrive, thanks to shifting habitats and changing climates.
All of these resources have been carefully put together for use in the adult education courses and field trips I lead throughout the year. The feedback has been encouraging — people find them useful, or at the very least, approachable. I hope you do too!
And finally, a big thank you to the incredible website Saxifraga, which generously provides high-quality wildlife photographs for non-commercial use. It’s a fantastic resource for nature projects like this one!