Course Description:

Plant Identification and Use is a self-paced, online course developed by Clemson Extension. Participants will learn to name and identify 119 trees, shrubs, groundcovers, and vines based on their leaves/needles, stems, buds, fruits, flowers, bark, and whole plant characteristics. This course is for anyone interested in identifying and effectively using plants in the southeastern landscape.

Woody and herbaceous plants offer beauty and function in residential/commercial landscapes, streetscapes, parks, golf courses, and other recreational areas. Throughout this course, participants will view a series of video presentations to help them learn to identify the common and scientific names of over 100 commonly cultivated plant species. This course consists of sixteen content modules and participants will have the opportunity to test their knowledge throughout the course by completing the self-check, plant identification quizzes.

Course Topics:

• Define morphological terms used to identify and describe plant species.
• Use a dichotomous key to identify plant species.
• Identify the common and scientific names of over 100 commonly cultivated trees, shrubs, vines, and groundcovers.
• Discuss the ornamental features (such as flower color and fall color), uses (accent, specimen, hedge, and screen, wildlife food and cover), cultural requirements (tolerance to full sun, partial shade, full shade), and important living and nonliving issues that affect the plant’s establishment and growth.

Course Requirements:

Participants are asked to submit six (6) multiple choice quizzes to receive a certificate of completion.

Technical Requirements:

To Participate fully in this course, you will need:

• An active email address for the individual participating in the course.
• A desktop computer or laptop (recommended): Canvas is available on mobile devices, but some content may appear differently
• Access to a high-speed internet connection.
• A web browser compatible with Canvas: Chrome and Firefox are recommended.
• Headphones or speakers (closed captioning also available)
• Computer skills including Internet browsing, using email, typing, downloading files, and basic troubleshooting.

Need Help?

• If you need help accessing or registering for a course, please contact Clemson Online at onlineplus@clemson.edu/
• Our support email is monitored Monday-Friday from 8:00-4:30. If you contact us in the evening or on the weekend, we will help you during the next business day.
• Please do not contact CCIT regarding CPE courses. Please reach out to Clemson Online so that we can assist you.