As plant enthusiasts, we've all been there - standing in front of a mysterious plant, wondering what it is and how to care for it. With the rise of technology, plant identifier apps have become a game-changer for botanists and beginners alike. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to the best plant identifier app of 2021.
Table of Contents
What to Look for in a Plant Identifier App
Before we dive into our top picks, it's essential to understand what makes a great plant identifier app. Here are some key features to look for:
- A comprehensive database of plant species
- High-quality images and descriptions to aid identification
- User-friendly interface and easy navigation
- Ability to upload photos for identification
- Community features for connecting with other plant enthusiasts
- Regular updates and additions to the database
Top 5 Plant Identifier Apps of 2021
After extensive research and testing, we've narrowed down the best plant identifier apps of 2021 to the following five:
PlantSnap
With over 200,000 plant species in its database, PlantSnap is one of the most comprehensive plant identifier apps available. Its user-friendly interface and high-quality images make it easy to navigate and identify plants. One of its standout features is the ability to upload photos of unknown plants, which are then identified by a team of experts.
Leafsnap
Developed by Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Smithsonian Institution, Leafsnap is a highly accurate plant identifier app. Its database focuses on plants found in North America, making it an excellent choice for those in the region. The app's unique feature is its ability to identify plants based on photographs of their leaves.
FlowerChecker
FlowerChecker boasts an impressive database of over 100,000 plant species, with a focus on flowers, trees, and shrubs. Its user-friendly interface and high-quality images make it easy to identify plants. One of its standout features is the ability to identify plants based on their flowers, leaves, or fruits.
What's That Plant?
What's That Plant? is a community-driven plant identifier app that allows users to upload photos of unknown plants. The app's database is constantly updated by its community of users, making it an excellent choice for those who want to connect with other plant enthusiasts.
PictureThis
PictureThis is a highly accurate plant identifier app that uses AI technology to identify plants. Its database contains over 10,000 plant species, with a focus on flowers, trees, and shrubs. The app's unique feature is its ability to provide personalized plant care advice based on the identified plant.
How to Choose the Best Plant Identifier App for You
With so many excellent plant identifier apps available, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your needs. Here are some tips to consider:
- Consider the region you're in and the types of plants you're likely to encounter
- Think about the features that are most important to you, such as community features or personalized plant care advice
- Read reviews and try out different apps to see which one works best for you
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Plant Identifier App
Once you've chosen the best plant identifier app for you, here are some tips for getting the most out of it:
- Take high-quality photos of the plant from multiple angles
- Provide as much information as possible about the plant, such as its location and any distinguishing features
- Use the app's community features to connect with other plant enthusiasts and learn from their experiences
- Regularly update the app to ensure you have access to the latest plant species and features
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best plant identifier app of 2021 is one that meets your specific needs and provides accurate and reliable information. By considering the features and tips outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to becoming a plant expert. Happy planting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plant identifier app, and how does it work?
A plant identifier app is a software application that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to identify plants based on photographs or descriptions. These apps typically use a database of known plant species and compare the user's input to find a match. They can be extremely useful for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and botanists who want to learn more about the plants they encounter.
Why do I need a plant identifier app?
You may need a plant identifier app if you're struggling to identify a plant in your garden, or if you're curious about the plants you see on hikes or in your neighborhood. These apps can help you learn more about the plants you encounter, including their scientific names, common names, and care requirements. They can also help you identify potential pests or diseases and provide guidance on how to treat them.
What are the benefits of using a plant identifier app?
There are several benefits to using a plant identifier app. These apps can help you identify plants quickly and accurately, learn more about their care requirements, and even connect with other plant enthusiasts. They can also help you identify potential pests or diseases and provide guidance on how to treat them. Additionally, many plant identifier apps offer features like plant tracking, watering reminders, and personalized care advice.
How accurate are plant identifier apps?
The accuracy of plant identifier apps can vary depending on the quality of the app and the size of its database. However, many modern plant identifier apps are highly accurate, with some claiming accuracy rates of 90% or higher. These apps use advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to analyze user input and provide accurate identifications.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in my garden?
Absolutely! Plant identifier apps are perfect for identifying plants in your garden. Simply take a photo of the plant, and the app will do its best to identify it. You can then use the app to learn more about the plant's care requirements, including watering, fertilizing, and pruning.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants on hikes or in my neighborhood?
Yes, you can use a plant identifier app to identify plants you encounter on hikes or in your neighborhood. Simply take a photo of the plant, and the app will do its best to identify it. This can be a great way to learn more about the plants that grow in your area and even discover new species.
What features should I look for in a plant identifier app?
When choosing a plant identifier app, there are several features you should look for. These include a large database of plant species, advanced search functionality, high-quality images, and personalized care advice. You should also look for apps that offer features like plant tracking, watering reminders, and community forums.
Are plant identifier apps available for both iOS and Android devices?
Yes, most plant identifier apps are available for both iOS and Android devices. This means you can use them on your smartphone or tablet, regardless of the operating system.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in different languages?
Some plant identifier apps offer multilingual support, which means you can use them to identify plants in different languages. However, not all apps offer this feature, so be sure to check before downloading.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in different regions?
Yes, many plant identifier apps can be used to identify plants in different regions. These apps often have databases that include plant species from around the world, making it possible to identify plants from different regions.
How do I take a good photo for a plant identifier app?
To take a good photo for a plant identifier app, make sure the plant is well-lit and in focus. Try to capture a clear image of the plant's leaves, flowers, and stems, as these are often the most distinctive features. Avoid taking photos in low light or with a cluttered background, as this can make it harder for the app to identify the plant.
What if the plant identifier app can't identify my plant?
If the plant identifier app can't identify your plant, don't worry! This can happen if the app's database doesn't include the specific species you're trying to identify. In this case, you can try using a different app or consulting with a botanist or gardening expert.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify pests or diseases?
Some plant identifier apps offer features that allow you to identify pests or diseases affecting your plants. These apps may use image recognition technology to analyze photos of the affected plant and provide guidance on how to treat the problem.
How do I know which plant identifier app is best for me?
To find the best plant identifier app for you, read reviews and compare features. Consider what you want to use the app for (e.g., identifying plants in your garden or on hikes) and look for apps that offer the features you need. You may also want to try out a few different apps to see which one you like best.
Are plant identifier apps suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Plant identifier apps are suitable for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. They're a great way to learn more about plants and get started with gardening, even if you don't have a lot of experience.
Can I use a plant identifier app to learn more about plant care?
Yes, many plant identifier apps offer features that provide guidance on plant care. These may include watering schedules, fertilization tips, and pruning advice. You can use these features to learn more about how to care for your plants and keep them healthy.
Can I use a plant identifier app to connect with other plant enthusiasts?
Some plant identifier apps offer community features that allow you to connect with other plant enthusiasts. These may include forums, social media groups, or even in-app messaging. You can use these features to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from others.
How do I keep my plant identifier app up to date?
To keep your plant identifier app up to date, make sure to regularly update the app and its database. This will ensure that you have access to the latest information and features.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in my indoor garden?
Absolutely! Plant identifier apps are perfect for identifying plants in your indoor garden. Simply take a photo of the plant, and the app will do its best to identify it. You can then use the app to learn more about the plant's care requirements and keep it healthy.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in my outdoor garden?
Yes, you can use a plant identifier app to identify plants in your outdoor garden. Simply take a photo of the plant, and the app will do its best to identify it. You can then use the app to learn more about the plant's care requirements and keep it healthy.
How do I use a plant identifier app to track my plants?
Many plant identifier apps offer features that allow you to track your plants over time. This may include features like plant journals, watering reminders, and growth tracking. You can use these features to monitor your plants' progress and make adjustments to their care as needed.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in different climates?
Yes, many plant identifier apps can be used to identify plants in different climates. These apps often have databases that include plant species from around the world, making it possible to identify plants from different climates.
How do I know if a plant identifier app is trustworthy?
To determine if a plant identifier app is trustworthy, read reviews and check its ratings. Look for apps that have been developed by reputable companies or experts in the field of botany. You should also be wary of apps that ask for unnecessary permissions or collect excessive data.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify rare or exotic plants?
Some plant identifier apps may be able to identify rare or exotic plants, but this depends on the size and scope of the app's database. If you're trying to identify a rare or exotic plant, you may want to try using multiple apps or consulting with a botanist or gardening expert.
How do I use a plant identifier app to learn more about plant biology?
Many plant identifier apps offer features that provide information on plant biology, including photosynthesis, respiration, and reproduction. You can use these features to learn more about the inner workings of plants and how they grow.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants for medicinal purposes?
Some plant identifier apps may be able to identify plants with medicinal properties, but this depends on the app's database and features. If you're trying to identify plants for medicinal purposes, be sure to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or botanist to ensure accurate identification and safe use.
Indoor Plant Care A-Z
Adiantum Fragrans
Aechmea Blue Rain
Aechmea Fasciata
Aeschynanthus Marmoratus
Aeschynanthus Radicans Gesneriad
African Mask
African Spear
African Violet
Air Plant
Alocasia Amazonica
Alocasia Araceae
Aloe
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera Barbadensis
Angel Wings Cactus
Anthurium Andraeanum
Anthurium Crystallinum
Arabian Coffee
Areca Palm
Aroid Palm
Arrowhead Ivy
Arum Lily
Asparagus Densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Asparagus fern
Asparagus Setaceus
Aspidistra Elatior
Asplenium Antiquum
Asplenium Nidus
Athyrium Filix-Femina
Austrailian Ivy Tree
Austrocephalocereus Dybowskii
Austrocylindropuntia subulata
Azalea Plant
Baby Doll Ti
Baby Rose
Baby Tears
Baby Toes
Baby's Tears
Bamboo Palm
Banana Palm
Banana Plant
Banana Tree
Barbados Aloe
Begoniaceae Maculata
Bengal Fig
Benjamin Tree
Benjamin's Fig
Beringin
Bilbo Cactus
Bird Of Paradise
Bird's Nest Fern
Bird's Tongue Flower
Birds Nest Fern
Blue Pothos
Blue Rain Bromeliad
Blue Rain Plant
Blue Sansevieria
Blue Torch Cactus
Bonsai Ficus
Boston Fern
Boston Fern
Boy Flower
Brighamia insignis
Bromeliad
Buddha's Hand
Bunny Cactus
Burrageara Orchid X Oncidium
Burro's Tail
Butterfly Palm
Cabbage on a Stick
Cabeça-branca
Cactus
Caladium Lindenii
Caladium Magnificum
Calathea
Calathea Marantaceae
Calla Lily
Cambria
Cambria Orchid
Canna Leaved Strelitzia
Cape Jasmine
Cape Primrose
Cast Iron Plant
Cathedral Cactus
Cathedral Plant
Cereus Peruvianus
Ceropegia Woodii
Ceropegia Woodii 'Marlies'
Chain of Hearts
Chain of Pearls
Chamaedorea Elegans
Chinese Ape
Chinese Money Plant
Chinese PLant
Chinese Taro
Chlorophytum Comosum
Christmas Cactus
Christmas Kalanchoe
Cladophora
Cladophora Ball
Climbing Asparagus
Codiaeum Variegatum Var. Pictum
Coffea Rubiaceae Arabica
Coffee Bean
Coffee Plant
Common Purslane
Common Yucca
Cordyline Fruticosa
Corn Plant
Crab Cactus
Crane Flower
Crassula Arborescens
Crassula Hobbit
Crassula Ovata
Croton
Crystal Anthurium
Ctenanthe
Ctenanthe Pilosa Golden Mosaic
Curly Locks Cactus
Curtain Fig
Cycas Revoluta
Cylindrical Snake Plant
Date Palm
Day Flower
Delicious Monster
Devil's Ivy
Devil's Tongue
Devils Backbone
Dieffenbachia Araceae
Donkey's Tail
Dracaena
Dracaena Fragrans
Dracaena Fragrans Golden Coast
Dracaena Fragrans Janet Craig
Dracaena Fragrans Steudneri
Dracaena Magenta
Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena Sanderiana
Dragon Plant
Dragon Scale Alocasia
Dragon Tree
Dumb Cane
Dwarf Arrowhead Vine
Dypsis Lutescens Chrysalidocarpus
Easter Cactus
Elephant Bush
Elephant Ear
Elephant Yucca
Emerald Palm
English Ivy
Entangled Hearts
Epiphyllum Anguliger
Epiphyllum guatemalensis
Epipremnum Aureum
Epipremnum Aureum Neon
Epipremnum Pinnatum
Epipremnum Pinnatum Aureum
Eternity Plant
Euphorbia Enopla
Euphorbia Trigona
Euphorbia Trigona Rubra
Eves Pin Cactus
False African Violet
False Shamrock
Ficus Benghalensis 'Audrey'
Ficus Benjamina
Ficus Elastica
Ficus Elastica 'Ruby'
Ficus Ginseng
Ficus Microcarpa
Fiddle Leaf Fig
First Aid Plant
Fishbone Cactus
Five Holes Plant
Flaming Katy
Flaming Sword
Flamingo Flower
Flamingo Lily
Flamingo Plant
Florist Kalanchoe
Flowering Cactus
Freckle Face
Freckle Plant
French Peanut
Friendship Plant
Garden Ivy
Garden Rose
Gardenia Jasminoides
Giant Bird Of Paradise
Golden Cane
Golden Neon Pothos
Golden Pothos
Goldfish Plant
Guiana Chestnut
Guzmania
Guzmania Bromeliaceae
Happy Leaf Pothos
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hardy Elephant's Ear
Hawaiian Ti Plant
Haworthia
Haworthia Rafiki
Heart Leaf
Hedera Helix
Hedera Helix Variagata
Hedera Hibernica
Heptapleurum Actinopyllum
Hobbit Jade
Horrida Plant
Horse's Tail
House Plant Cuttings For Propagation
Hoya Carnosa
Hurricane Plant
Hylotelephium Sieboldii
Hypoestes Phyllostachya
Inch Plant
Irish Ivy
Jade Plant
Jade Plant
Java Fig
Java Tree
Java Willow
Jelly Bean Plant
Jungle Boogie
Jungle Bush
Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Kalanchoe Delagoensis x Daigremontiana
Kleinia stapeliiformis
Korean Rock Fern
Lace Fern
Laceleaf
Lady Fern
Lake Ball
Lamb's Tail
Lemon Geranium
Leopard Lily
Lipstick Plant
Little Hogweed
Love Plant
Lucky Bamboo
Madagascar Jasmine
Maidenhair Fern
Malabar Chestnut
Malayan Banyan
Maranta Kerchoveana
Maranta Leuconeura
Maranta Marisela
Mason Congo Sansevieria
Measles Plant
Medicinal Aloe
Medicine Plant
Mexican Breadfruit
Milk Barrel Cactus
Miltonia Orchid
Ming Aralia
Mini Philo
Mini Swiss Cheese Vine
Missionary Plant
Mistletoe Cactus
Money Plant
Money Tree
Monkey Jars
Monstera
Monstera Adansonii
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Minima
Moss Ball
Moss Rose
Moth Orchid
Mother In Law's Tongue
Mother Of Thousands
Musa
Musa Basjoo Tropicana
N'Joy Pothos
Nemantanthus Gregarius
Nematanthus gregarious
Neon Devil's Ivy
Neon Pothos
Nepenthes Alata
Nephrolepis Exaltata
Never Never Plant
Night Blooming Cactus
Octopus Tree
Odontoglossum Orchid
Oilcloth Flower
Old Man Cactus
Oncidium Orchid
Opuntia Microdaisy Albata
Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis
Oxalis Triangularis
Pachira Aquatica
Pancake Plant
Pansy Orchid
Parasol Plant
Parlor Palm
Parlour Palm
Pass-it-along Plant
Passiflora Caerulea
Passionflower
Patio Rose
Peace Lily
Peace Lily
Peacock Plant
Pearl and Star Plant
Pelargonium Zonal
Peperomia Deppeana × Quadrifolia | Peperomia Tetraphylla
Peperomia Polybotrya
Peperomia Prostrata
Peruvian Apple Cactus
Philodendron
Philodendron 'Monkey Mask'
Philodendron Hederaceum
Philodendron Minima
Philodendron Scandens
Phoenix Canariensis
Pickle Cactus
Pickle Plant
Pilea Depressa
Pilea Mollis
Pilea Peperomoides
Pilocereus Azureus
Pincushion Euphorbia
Pink Jelly Beans
Pink Pork and Beans
Pink Splash
Pink Violet
Pitcher Plant
Polka Dot Begonia
Polka Dot Plant
Polyscias Fruticosa
Polystichum Tsussimense
Portulaca Umbraticolata
Portulacaria Afra Mediopicta
Pot Belly Fig
Pothos
Prayer Plant
Provision Tree
Purple Rain Plant
Purple Shamrock
Purple Wood Sorrel
Rabbit Ears Cactus
Rabbit's Foot
Rabbit's Tracks
Radiator Plant
Raindrop Money Plant
Raindrop Pilea
Rattlesnake Plant
Red Rhipsalis Cactus
Red Rubber Plant
Rhapidophora Tetrasperma
Rhipsalis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Agudoensis
Rhipsalis Heteroclada
Rhipsalis Horrida
Rhipsalis Occidentalis
Rhododendron Inga
Ric Rac Orchid Cactus
Ric-Rac Cactus
Rosa
Rosary Plant
Rosary Vine
Rough Fern
Rubber Plant
Saba Nut
Sago Palm
Saint Barbara's Sword
Saint Paulia
Saint Paulia
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Trifascia
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sarracenia
Satin Pothos
Savannah Geranium
Schefflera Arboricola
Schlumbergera Bridgesii
Scindapsus Pictum Argyraeus
Scindapsus Pictus
Sedum Morganianum
Sedum Rubrotinctum Variegata
Senecio
Senecio Herrianus
Senecio Rowleyanus
Senecio Stapeliiformis
Shark Fin Plant
Shark's Tooth Philodendron
Silver Dollar Plant
Silver Jade Plant
Silver Pothos
Silver Vase
Small-Leaved Fig
Small-Leaved Rubber Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Plant
Snake Tongue
Spanish Moss
Spathiphyllum
Spathiphyllum wallisii
Spear Sansevieria
Spider Plant
Spider Plant
Spiderwort
Spineless Yucca
Split-leaf Philodendron
Spotted Begonia
Star Plant
Stephanotis Floribunda
Stick Yucca
Stranging Fig
Strelitzia Alba
Strelitzia Nicolai
Strelitzia Reginae
Streptocarpus Saxorum
String of Beads
String of Hearts
String of Pearls
String of Tears
String of Turtles
Strings
Surprise Miltoniopsis
Sweetheart Plant
Sweetheart Plant Brazil
Swiss Cheese Plant
Swiss Cheese Vine
Sword Fern
Syngonium Erythrophyllum
Syngonium Nephphytis
Tailflower
Tears Pilea
Thanksgiving Cactus
Ti Leaf
Tiger Tooth Philodendron
Tillandsia
Tillandsia Ionantha
Tradescantia Albiflora
Tradescantia Commelinaceae Multiflora
Trailing Jade
Tropical Laurel
Tropicana Palm
Trout Begonia
True Aloe
Trumpet Lily
Trumpet Pitcher Plant
Trumpet Plant
Turtle Strings
UFO Plant
Umbrella Tree
Urn Plant
Variegated Chain of Hearts
Variegated Entangled Hearts
Variegated Laurel
Variegated Rosary Plant
Variegated Rosary Vine
Variegated Rubber Plant
Variegated String of Hearts
Vriesea splendens
Vuylstekeara Orchid
Wandering Dude
Wandering Jew
Wax Plant
Weeping Fig
Weeping Laurel
Whale Fin Plant
White Bird Of Paradise
White Crane Flower
White Flowered Wild Banana
Wild Banana
Wild Cape Banana
Yellow Palm
Yucca Elephantipes
Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zantedeschia
Zanzibar Gem
Zebra Basket Vine
Zebra Cactus
Zebra Lipstick Plant
Zebra Plant
Zebrina Pendula
Zigzag Cactus
Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant
Harley Jennings
Harley Jennings is a renowned indoor plant expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience working with some of the UK's top botany and garden centers. Harley's passion for indoor plants blossomed early in his career, leading him to become a trusted authority in the field. He has spent years nurturing plants, researching the best care practices, and sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow plant enthusiasts.
Harley is the author of the comprehensive guide "The Complete Guide to Indoor Plant Care," where he combines his wealth of experience with a deep love for greenery. This guide provides readers with everything they need to know about indoor plants, from selection and placement to watering, feeding, and troubleshooting common issues.
In addition to his writing, Harley plays a pivotal role in the development of the Botanic Beam app, a revolutionary tool that offers plant lovers a wealth of information in one convenient place. The app simplifies plant care, providing tailored advice, reminders, and expert tips to help users create thriving indoor gardens.
Outside of his professional life, Harley enjoys urban beekeeping, finding a unique connection between nurturing plants and supporting local ecosystems. His relatable, down-to-earth approach makes him a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners. Whether through his guide or the Botanic Beam app, Harley Jennings continues to inspire and educate, helping people transform their homes into green sanctuaries.