Got a mystery plant? The University of Washington Botanic Gardens are here to help

Plant Identification Help from UW Botanic Gardens

Ever wondered what kind of tree or shrub is growing in your yard, or admired a neighbor’s flower without knowing its name? The Otis Douglas Hyde Herbarium at the University of Washington Botanic Gardens can help solve your plant mysteries—free of charge.

As featured in The Seattle Times, the herbarium is staffed by a dedicated UW graduate student and a team of volunteers who work to identify unknown plants brought in by the public. While their main mission is to collect and house specimens of all plants grown in the UW Botanic Gardens, they also enjoy helping curious plant lovers with identifications.

To get help identifying a plant, bring in a physical sample—ideally including flowers or fruit—and a photo of the entire plant, if possible. If the herbarium is closed, you can leave your sample at the Center for Urban Horticulture reception desk. Keep in mind that identifications are more difficult without flowers or fruit, but the team will do their best.

You can also mail your plant sample along with a completed identification form to:

Hyde Herbarium
UW Botanic Gardens
University of Washington
Box 354115
Seattle, WA 98195-4115

For more information, contact the herbarium at 206-685-2589.