Common Names

[Regis Miller]

Earlier someone wrote that Little's book (1979) was a good source for
common names of North American trees.  However, there are earlier
versions which are even more interesting.  In particular I suggest
looking at the following:
Sudworth, G.B. 1927. Check list of the forest trees of the United
States. USDA, Misc. Circular 92.
In this book States are listed for each common name which does show
some local influence.  You can find such common names as 'savice'
used in TN for serviceberry (Amelanchier).  However, they do not list
the name 'sarvice' which is used in southwestern PA and probably
other areas as well.  Of course if you really want to get confused,
look at some of the Australian common names!  Mountain ash is
Eucalyptus regnans and the name maple is applied to several genera
including Flindersia (Rutaceae), Endiandra (Lauraceae) and
Cryptocarya (Lauraceae).

Regis B. Miller
USDA, FS, Forest Products Lab
Madison, WI