Melissa Friedman

0000-0001-8813-5791

How to Use a Dichotomous Key: A Tutorial Featuring 10 Common Shade Trees of the Tampa Bay Area

Andrew K. Koeser, Gitta Hasing, Michael G. Andreu, and Melissa H. Friedman

A dichotomous key is a tool used to help identify an unknown organism. This fact sheet features a key of leaf characteristics for ten common broadleaf trees in the Tampa Bay Area. Accurately navigating this series of paired, either-or choices about leaf characteristics will lead the reader to identify the correct tree from the group of ten.

How to Identify a Tree

Michael G. Andreu, Erin M. Givens, and Melissa H. Friedman

Environmental Services Provided by Tampa’s Urban Forest

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Rob J. Northrop

FOR-204, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Rob J. Northrop, provides a brief overview and results from an urban ecological assessment conducted in the city of Tampa from February to July 2007. Includes references. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, January 2009.

Tabebuia serratifolia, Yellow Trumpet Tree

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

This deciduous tree is native to South and Central America and is commonly planted in Florida as an ornamental landscape and shade tree. It has attractive, bright yellow blossoms produced in the absence of leaves. Once established, this tree is drought tolerant, making it easier to care for and less demanding on water resources. Yellow trumpet tree also has a relatively high tolerance to salt spray, and therefore is an appropriate street tree or yard specimen in coastal areas. This 2-page fact sheet was written by Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop, and published by the UF Department of School of Forest Resources and Conservation, July 2012.

Potential Woody Species and Species Attributes for Windbreaks in Florida

Michael G. Andreu, Bijay Tamang, Donald L. Rockwood, and Melissa H. Friedman

This article offers guidance for Florida farmers and growers in the selection of woody species for windbreaks, highlighting attributes that align with sustainable agricultural practices.

Important Species in Tampa's Urban Forest

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

FOR-205, a 4-page illustrated fact sheet by Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop, presents the information gained about tree species results from an urban ecological assessment conducted in the city of Tampa, including native vs. non-native and invasive tree species, palms and palm diseases, and mangrove forests. Includes references. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, February 2009.

The Benefits of Windbreaks for Florida Growers

Michael G. Andreu, Bijay Tamang, Melissa H. Friedman, Don Rockwood

There are two types of windbreaks, living (natural) and non-living (artificial). Each type serves to reduce wind, but there are economic tradeoffs associated with each. This paper will focus on the advantages and disadvantages of living windbreaks. This document is FOR192, one of a series of the School of Forest Resources and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension. Original publication date July 2008.

City of Tampa Urban Ecological Analysis

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Shawn M. Landry, and Robert J. Northrop

This document is FOR203, one of a series of the School of Forest Resources and Conservation Department, UF/IFAS Extension, University of Florida. Original publication date December 2008. Revised January 2011.

Cycas revoluta, Sago Palm

Robert J. Northrop, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Crataegus marshallii, Parsley Hawthorn

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, Heather V. Quintana, and Robert Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Cassia javanica, Pink and White Shower

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered publication.

Phoenix dactylifera, Date Palm

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

This document provides an overview of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), detailing its taxonomy, description, and applications. Native to North Africa or the Middle East, this palm thrives in dry climates and can grow up to 80 feet tall. It produces edible fruits called dates, which have been a staple food source for over a millennium. The article also discusses the horticultural uses of date palms, their growth requirements, and their susceptibility to diseases like lethal yellowing. Additionally, it highlights the allergenic potential of male trees due to airborne pollen. Original publication date May 2010.

Avicennia germinans, Black Mangrove

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary M. Hudson, and Heather V. Quintana

This document provides an overview of the black mangrove (Avicennia germinans), a coastal evergreen tree native to Florida. It details the tree’s physical characteristics, habitat, and ecological significance. The black mangrove thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, tolerates waterlogged and saline conditions, and plays a crucial role in stabilizing shorelines and supporting marine life. Additionally, the document discusses the tree’s commercial uses, including its wood, bark, and flowers, and highlights its importance in local ecosystems and human applications. Original publication date June 2010.

Hyophorbe lagenicaulis, Bottle Palm

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Wodyetia bifurcata, Foxtail Palm

Mary McKenzie, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Phoenix sylvestris, Wild Date Palm

Robert J. Northrop, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Gleditsia aquatica, Water Locust

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

Water locust’s wide, spreading root system and affinity for hydric conditions makes it a useful specimen for erosion control on wet banks of freshwater systems. While not widely available, planting this tree in residential yards or other public locations may be less than ideal, since the long and sharply pointed thorns on the main trunk and branches can be hazardous. This deciduous tree is native to Florida.

Laguncularia racemosa, White Mangrove

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Melaleuca quinquenervia, Melaleuca

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Management of Field Windbreaks

Bijay Tamang, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Donald L. Rockwood

FOR-288, a 6-page illustrated fact sheet by Bijay Tamang, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Donald L. Rockwood, summarizes the most important management practices needing attention from the time the windbreak is planted to when it is replaced.

Hippomane mancinella, Manchineel

Michael G. Andreu and Melissa H. Friedman

This poisonous tree is native to southern Florida, the Keys, many of the Caribbean islands, Mexico, and Central America. Though it is poisonous to humans and many animals, iguanas eat the fruit and sometimes live among the tree’s limbs. It’s found along the seacoasts and in brackish swamps where it grows among mangroves. Each leaf has a small gland where the leaf joins the stem. The bark is reddish-to-grayish brown and cracked looking. Flowers inconspicuous, but the spike

Quercus geminata, Sand Live Oak

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Vaccinium arboreum, Sparkleberry

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Leucaena leucocephala, White Leadtree

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

In Florida, white leadtree is a prohibited species and therefore is not used in commercial applications in the state. However, in its native range it is used as a source of charcoal, fuel, and lumber. It has also been planted as a windbreak for crops such as coffee and cocoa, and some ranchers use the tree as a source of both shade and forage for cattle, with the pods being an excellent source of protein.

Casuarina equisetifolia, Australian Pine

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

Australian pine was originally planted in Florida in the late 1800's as a windbreak and for shade. But soon thereafter it was spreading without help from humans. Today it is considered a category I invasive species in Florida, and the Division of Plant Industry strictly prohibits possessing, transporting, and cultivating this species.

Carya aquatica, Water Hickory

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, Heather V. Quintana, and Robert J. Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Livistona decipiens, Ribbon Fan Palm

Mary McKenzie, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Fortunella spp., Kumquat

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

Many people find kumquat trees attractive and useful yard specimens. Their dark green leaves and contrasting bright orange fruits give them ornamental quality, and their relatively small size makes them easy to care for once they’re established. Because kumquats generally require less care than other citrus trees, they may be a good choice for gardeners with less time or experience, but who still desire an attractive and tasty citrus tree. If space is an issue, kumquats also do well in containers as long as they receive proper sunlight and watering.

Nyssa aquatica, Water Tupelo

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Cassia afrofistula, Kenyan Cassia

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

The Kenyan cassia can be used as a showy ornamental tree or shrub, with its dark foliage and bright yellow flowers. Some people find the seed pods to be unattractive and prune the tree after it flowers to prevent pods from developing. This tree tolerates a wide range of soil types and can be used in a garden, park, patio, or streetscape setting.

Enterolobium cyclocarpum, Ear Tree

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

This document provides an overview of the Enterolobium cyclocarpum, commonly known as the ear tree. Native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America, this deciduous tree thrives in various soil types and warm, moist climates. It features light green, bipinnately compound leaves, and produces distinctive semicircular seedpods resembling ears. The ear tree is valued for its shade, especially on coffee plantations and cattle ranches, and its heartwood is used in furniture making due to its resistance to fungus and termites. However, it is susceptible to limb breakage during storms and is not tolerant of salty conditions. Original publication date July 2012.

Ricinus communis, Castor Bean

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

This document provides an overview of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), detailing its characteristics, uses, and potential hazards. It describes the plant’s growth habits, physical features, and its classification as an invasive species in Florida. The article also highlights the plant’s allergenic properties and the toxicity of its seeds, which contain ricin. Additionally, it outlines the commercial, horticultural, and medicinal applications of castor oil derived from the seeds, emphasizing the importance of careful handling due to the plant’s toxic nature. Original publication date May 2010.

Hyophorbe verschaffeltii, Spindle Palm

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Dypsis lutescens, Areca Palm

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

This document provides an overview of the Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens), detailing its taxonomy, common names, and physical characteristics. Native to eastern Madagascar, this palm is endangered in its natural habitat but widely cultivated in Florida and the United States. It thrives in well-drained soils with ample water and can grow up to 35 feet tall. The article also discusses its horticultural applications, including its use as a landscape accent and natural fence, and offers care recommendations such as planting during the rainy season and regular fertilization to maintain its green color. Original publication date May 2010.

Quercus hemisphaerica, Darlington Oak

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Morus rubra, Red Mulberry

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Quercus laevis, Turkey Oak

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Windbreak Designs and Planting for Florida Agricultural Fields

FOR-227, a 6-page illustrated fact sheet by Bijay Tamang, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Donald L. Rockwood, reviews several design and planting options in order to assist in windbreak planning and development. Includes references. Published by the UF School of Forest Resources and Conservation, September 2009.

Dypsis decaryi, Triangle Palm

Heather V. Quintana, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Duranta erecta, Golden Dewdrop

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, Heather V. Quintana, and Robert J. Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Quercus incana, Bluejack Oak

Melissa H. Friedman, Michael G. Andreu, Heather V. Quintana, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Quercus chapmanii, Chapman Oak

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Ptychosperma elegans, Solitaire Palm

Heather V. Quintana, Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Mary McKenzie

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Persea palustris, Swamp Bay

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Lyonia lucida, Fetterbush

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, and Heather V. Quintana

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Fraxinus caroliniana, Pop Ash

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, Heather V. Quintana, and Robert Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Ficus citrifolia, Shortleaf Fig

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, Mary McKenzie, Heather V. Quintana, and Robert J. Northrop

A UF/IFAS numbered Organism ID.

Cassia leptophylla, Gold Medallion Tree

Michael G. Andreu, Melissa H. Friedman, and Robert J. Northrop

The gold medallion tree is planted primarily as a shade tree or as a decorative specimen for the yard or street. Many people like this tree because of its fast growth rate and showy, bright yellow clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer months. This tree loses its leaves for a very short period each year, but leaves are quickly replaced. Pruning the tree to one main leading stem from which major branches are attached can help increase its strength and sturdiness against strong wind events.