Knowing the names of the common native plants you see on your walks, bike rides, or volunteer days can deepen your connection with the natural world. In this class, you will learn what to look for when identifying a plant, and then spend time walking the grounds of The Morton Arboretum with an expert, learning the names and identifying characteristics of common native plants of northern Illinois.
This class is great for the beginner or for any naturalist looking to brush up on native plant ID.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Emma Leavens, tree conservation biology program manager, The Morton Arboretum
Continuing education: This program fulfills a plant identification requirement for the Natural Areas Conservation Training Program.
Age: 16 and older
Course number: N233
Instructor
Emma Leavens, tree conservation biology program manager, The Morton Arboretum
Emma Leavens cares for The Morton Arboretum’s Ware Field Experimental Prairie, conducts research on prairie soil ecology, and enjoys learning and teaching about biodiversity. She has an MS in plant biology and conservation from Northwestern University and a good deal of enthusiasm for learning about organisms and their interactions with each other.
What to Know
This program meets outdoors. Check the forecast and dress for the weather.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and plan to walk more than a mile on uneven terrain.
Please bring a hat and water bottle and wear sun and insect protection.
A hand lens and your favorite field guide will be useful (some will be available to borrow).
Continuing Education
This class fulfills a requirement for the Natural Areas Conservation Training (N-ACT) Program.
Program Schedule
Thursday, September 4, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Thornhill Education Center (Parking Lot 21), West Side
