CALIFORNIA TREES
A field guide to the native species
By Matt Ritter and Michael Kauffmann
Buy Now at BACKCOUNTRY PRESS
COMING IN APRIL 2025
California Trees explores the majestic and diverse world of California’s largest organisms. It is a comprehensive guide celebrating the beauty and ecological significance of the state’s 95 native species. From the towering redwoods of the northern coast to the iconic Joshua trees of the desert, Trees of California takes readers on a journey through the state’s varied landscapes, showcasing the remarkable diversity of its arboreal inhabitants.
With detailed profiles for each species, including identification tips, habitat descriptions, and cultural or historical significance, the book is a perfect companion for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and environmental stewards. Illustrated with vivid photographs and expert insights into the vital roles trees play in supporting ecosystems, California Trees is an invitation to deepen your connection with the natural world and appreciate the unique beauty of the Golden State’s forests, woodlands, and wild spaces.
Includes:
ID tips and photos for 95 native tree species (Download the companion checklist [pdf])
Refined range maps for each tree built with community science
Detailed photo collections for identifying each species
Destinations for finding trees in California
Exploration of forest types and landscapes from across the state
Sidebars exploring natural and cultural history of the state’s arboreal legacy
“More than a comprehensive and superbly informative field guide, California Trees is a celebration of the diversity and magnificence of California’s wild trees and the wild places they inhabit. Expert and beginner alike will be inspired to deepen their understanding of California’s trees, woodlands, and forests from this tour de force by two of California’s leading tree authorities and celebrated natural history authors.”
—Bruce Baldwin, W.L. Jepson Professor & Curator, UC Berkeley
“Wow! This book is sure to delight any tree lover and become a favorite go-to reference. Offering a concise and comprehensive summary of California trees, this book is a stunning collection of plant glamor shots paired with species-level details, all organized in an intuitive and user-friendly format.”
—Lucy Kerhoulas, Professor of Forest Physiology, Cal Poly Humboldt
“California Trees is a celebration of the state’s globally significant biodiversity with information presented in such a way to make accessible what could otherwise be overwhelming.”
—Stephen C. Sillett, Kenneth L. Fisher Chair in Redwood Forest Ecology at Cal Poly Humboldt
