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. In the past, identifying plants required extensive knowledge, research, and often, a degree in botany. However, with the advent of technology, plant identifier apps have revolutionized the way we explore and understand the plant kingdom. In this article, we'll delve into the world of plant identifier apps, exploring their features, benefits, and the best options available in 2020.
Table of Contents
What is a Plant Identifier App?
A plant identifier app is a software program that uses artificial intelligence, machine learning, and image recognition technology to identify plants based on photographs or descriptions. These apps are designed to help users identify plants quickly and accurately, providing information on their species, characteristics, and care requirements.
How Do Plant Identifier Apps Work?
Plant identifier apps typically use a combination of the following methods to identify plants:
- Image recognition: Users upload a photo of the plant, and the app's algorithm compares it to a vast database of plant images to find a match.
- Machine learning: The app's algorithm is trained on a large dataset of plant information, enabling it to learn and improve its identification accuracy over time.
- User input: Some apps allow users to input characteristics such as leaf shape, color, and size to help narrow down the identification process.
Benefits of Using a Plant Identifier App
Plant identifier apps offer a range of benefits for plant enthusiasts, including:
- Quick and accurate identification: No more hours spent pouring over botanical texts or searching online for answers.
- Access to a vast database: Plant identifier apps often have extensive databases of plant information, providing users with a wealth of knowledge at their fingertips.
- Improved plant care: By identifying the specific needs of a plant, users can provide optimal care, leading to healthier, thriving plants.
- Community engagement: Many apps offer social features, allowing users to connect with other plant enthusiasts, share knowledge, and learn from each other.
Top Plant Identifier Apps in 2020
With so many plant identifier apps available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Here are some of the top-rated apps in 2020:
- PlantSnap: With a database of over 150,000 plant species, PlantSnap is one of the most comprehensive plant identifier apps available.
- FlowerChecker: This app uses a combination of AI and human experts to provide accurate identifications, and offers a unique "plant detective" feature to help users solve mysteries.
- Leafsnap: Developed by Columbia University, University of Maryland, and Smithsonian Institution, Leafsnap is a highly accurate app that uses visual recognition software to identify plants.
- Garden Compass: This app not only identifies plants but also provides personalized gardening advice, making it a great resource for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
Features to Look for in a Plant Identifier App
When choosing a plant identifier app, consider the following features:
- Accuracy: Look for apps with high accuracy rates and a large database of plant species.
- User interface: A user-friendly interface can make a big difference in the overall experience. Choose an app that is easy to navigate and visually appealing.
- Additional features: Some apps offer additional features such as plant care advice, gardening tips, and social sharing options. Consider what features are important to you and choose an app that meets your needs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Plant Identifier App
To get the most out of a plant identifier app, follow these tips:
- Take high-quality photos: A clear, well-lit photo of the plant can make a big difference in the accuracy of the identification.
- Provide detailed descriptions: If you're not sure what a plant is, provide as much detail as possible, including leaf shape, color, and size.
- Use multiple apps: Don't rely on a single app for identification. Try using multiple apps to get a consensus on the plant's identity.
Conclusion
Plant identifier apps have revolutionized the way we explore and understand the plant kingdom. With their ease of use, accuracy, and wealth of information, these apps are a must-have for any plant enthusiast. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, a plant identifier app can help you unlock the secrets of the plant world and take your plant care to the next level.
At Botanic Beam, we're dedicated to providing the best and most in-depth information on plant care. By staying up-to-date with the latest technology and trends, we can help you become a better plant parent and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plant identifier app?
A plant identifier app is a software application that uses image recognition technology to identify plants based on photographs of their leaves, flowers, or other characteristics. These apps are designed to help users learn more about the plants they encounter, whether in their gardens, on hikes, or in their neighborhoods.
How does a plant identifier app work?
Plant identifier apps use machine learning algorithms to analyze the characteristics of a plant in a photograph and match them to a database of known plant species. The app then provides information about the identified plant, including its scientific name, common name, and other relevant details.
What are the benefits of using a plant identifier app?
Using a plant identifier app can be a great way to learn about the plants around you, whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out. These apps can help you identify plants you've never seen before, provide information on how to care for your plants, and even offer suggestions for plants that are similar to ones you already have.
Are plant identifier apps accurate?
While plant identifier apps are not 100% accurate, they are constantly improving as more data is collected and algorithms are refined. Many apps claim accuracy rates of 90% or higher, and some even offer community features that allow users to correct or confirm identifications.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify weeds?
Absolutely! Plant identifier apps can be a great tool for identifying weeds in your garden or yard. By snapping a photo of the weed, you can quickly learn what it is and how to get rid of it.
Do plant identifier apps only work for flowering plants?
No, plant identifier apps can identify a wide range of plants, including trees, shrubs, grasses, and even mosses and lichens. While flowering plants may be easier to identify, many apps can identify plants based on their leaves, bark, or other characteristics.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify houseplants?
Yes, many plant identifier apps can identify houseplants. Whether you're trying to figure out what type of succulent you have or how to care for your fern, a plant identifier app can be a great resource.
Are plant identifier apps only for experts?
No, plant identifier apps are designed to be accessible to anyone, regardless of their level of botanical knowledge. Many apps offer user-friendly interfaces and simple search functions that make it easy to get started.
Do I need to be a good photographer to use a plant identifier app?
No, you don't need to be a professional photographer to use a plant identifier app. However, it's helpful to take clear, well-lit photos of the plant from multiple angles. This can help the app's algorithms get a better sense of the plant's characteristics.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants that are not in my region?
Many plant identifier apps have global databases, which means they can identify plants from all over the world. However, it's possible that some apps may be more focused on plants native to specific regions.
How do I choose the best plant identifier app for my needs?
When choosing a plant identifier app, consider what features are most important to you. Do you want an app that specializes in a particular type of plant, such as succulents or orchids? Do you need an app that offers community features or personalized plant care advice? Research different options and read reviews to find the app that best fits your needs.
Are plant identifier apps free?
Some plant identifier apps are free to download and use, while others may offer in-app purchases or subscription-based models. Be sure to check the pricing and features of an app before you download it.
Can I use a plant identifier app on my desktop computer?
While many plant identifier apps are designed for mobile devices, some may offer desktop versions or websites that allow you to upload photos and identify plants from your computer.
How do I take the best photos for a plant identifier app?
To get the best results from a plant identifier app, take clear, well-lit photos of the plant from multiple angles. Try to capture the entire plant, as well as close-ups of its leaves, flowers, and other distinctive features.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants that are not in bloom?
Yes, many plant identifier apps can identify plants based on their leaves, stems, or other characteristics, even if they're not in bloom.
How do plant identifier apps handle rare or exotic plants?
While plant identifier apps may not have databases that include every rare or exotic plant, many apps allow users to submit new species or provide feedback on identifications. This can help improve the app's accuracy and expand its database over time.
Can I use a plant identifier app to learn about plant care and maintenance?
Many plant identifier apps offer information on plant care and maintenance, including tips on watering, pruning, and fertilizing. Some apps may even provide personalized advice based on your specific climate and region.
Are plant identifier apps suitable for kids?
Yes, plant identifier apps can be a great educational tool for kids. Many apps offer interactive features and games that can help children learn about plants and develop an appreciation for nature.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in a foreign language?
Some plant identifier apps offer multilingual support, which means you can use them to identify plants even if you're not fluent in the local language. However, this feature may not be available in all apps.
How do plant identifier apps handle plant diseases and pests?
Some plant identifier apps may offer information on common plant diseases and pests, as well as advice on how to treat or prevent them. However, this feature may not be available in all apps.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants in a specific habitat, such as a desert or rainforest?
Yes, many plant identifier apps can identify plants based on their habitat or region. This can be a great way to learn about the unique plants that thrive in specific environments.
How do plant identifier apps handle plant hybrids?
Plant identifier apps may have varying levels of success when it comes to identifying plant hybrids. However, many apps are designed to recognize hybrids and provide information on their parent species.
Can I use a plant identifier app to identify plants that are similar to ones I already have?
Yes, many plant identifier apps offer features that allow you to search for plants that are similar to ones you already have. This can be a great way to discover new plants and expand your collection.
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.