Trees of Michigan: A Field Guide by Stan Tekiela

In his field guide Trees of Michigan, Stan Tekiela describes all 105 species found in the state. Fact-filled information contains the particulars that you want to know, while full-page photographs provide the visual detail needed for accurate identification. Plus, Stan’s naturalist notes feature fascinating tidbits and facts. 

Today we take a look at the wild apple tree. Did you know that this tree with a single crooked trunk and many spreading branches is a direct descendent of the ancestors of cultivated apples now sold in grocery stores?

The tree was introduced in colonial times to the U.S. along with the crab apple tree. Found throughout the country now, the apples are edible and some are very delicious.

The fruit has been used in jellies and desserts such as pies. These trees, usually associated with former homesteads, are found along roads or fencerows where seedlings were planted or where apples were discarded and seeds have taken root. A wide variety of wild apple species are now naturalized in Michigan. 

About the author: Naturalist, wildlife photographer, and writer Stan Tekiela is the author of more than 175 field guides, nature books, children’s books, wildlife audio CDs, puzzles, and playing cards, presenting many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, trees, wildflowers, and cacti in the United States. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural History from the University of Minnesota and as an active professional naturalist for more than 25 years, Stan studies and photographs wildlife throughout the United States and Canada. He has received various national and regional awards for his books and photographs. 

Also a well-known columnist and radio personality, his syndicated column appears in more than 25 newspapers, and his wildlife programs are broadcast on a number of Midwest radio stations.

You can follow Stan on Facebook and Twitter, or contact him via his web page. Stan’s nationally syndicated NatureSmart Column appears in more than 25 cities spanning 5 states (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, and Pennsylvania) and is circulated to more than 750,000 readers.

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