Atlanta Tree Identifier
Not sure what kind of tree is in your yard? Describe the leaves, bark, size, and features and we'll match it against 20 tree species common to the Atlanta metro area and Georgia.
Select an option above to continue the identification
This tool provides general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional identification. For help, call 404-850-1174.
How the Tree Identifier Works
1. Leaves
Describe the leaf shape — needles, lobed, simple, compound, or delicate and lacy.
2. Size
Estimate the tree's height — from small ornamentals to towering 80-foot shade trees.
3. Bark
Describe the bark texture — smooth, rough, peeling, scaly, or fibrous and shreddy.
4. Features
Note any standout traits — showy flowers, acorns, fall color, evergreen, or spiky gumballs.
5. Match
Get ranked species matches with links to detailed care guides and common problems.
20 Atlanta Tree Species in Our Database
Our identification database covers the most common shade trees, ornamentals, evergreens, and native species found across the Atlanta metro area and Georgia.
Common Trees in the Atlanta Metro Area
These are the tree species we encounter most often across Atlanta neighborhoods. Click any species to learn about identification, care, and common problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the EastLake Tree Identifier work?
The Tree Identifier asks five quick questions about what you see — leaf shape, tree height, bark texture, standout features (flowers, acorns, fall color), and where the tree is growing. Your answers are scored against our database of 20 tree species commonly found in the Atlanta metro area, and the best matches are ranked by confidence.
What trees can this tool identify?
The database covers 20 species that are most common across Atlanta and Georgia, including Southern Live Oak, Water Oak, Willow Oak, White Oak, Red Maple, Japanese Maple, Loblolly Pine, Crepe Myrtle, Dogwood, Yoshino Cherry, River Birch, Leyland Cypress, Eastern Red Cedar, Sweetgum, Tulip Poplar, Pecan, Southern Magnolia, Bald Cypress, Chinese Elm, and Green Giant Arborvitae.
Is this accurate enough to replace a professional arborist?
The Tree Identifier is a helpful starting point, but it is not a substitute for professional identification. Factors like leaf variation between cultivars, seasonal appearance changes, and hybrid species can make identification tricky from descriptions alone. Our ISA-certified arborist can confirm any species during a free on-site visit in the Atlanta metro area.
Why is it important to know what tree species I have?
Different tree species have different care needs, growth patterns, and vulnerabilities. Knowing your species helps you prune at the right time, watch for species-specific diseases and pests, plan for mature size, and make informed decisions about treatment or removal. For example, oaks are susceptible to oak wilt, while Leyland Cypress is prone to Seiridium canker — and the recommended responses are very different.
Does EastLake offer free tree identification on site?
Yes. We provide free on-site tree identification and consultation for homeowners and businesses in the Atlanta metro area, including Atlanta, Decatur, East Atlanta, East Point, Gresham Park, Stone Mountain, Tucker, Smyrna, Sandy Springs, and Roswell. Our ISA-certified arborist will identify your trees, assess their health, and provide care recommendations.