Key to the Gymnosperms of the Southeastern U.S. -
Needles three-sided, four-sided or oval in cross section


Needles are awl-shaped (broader at the base and tapering to a point), with a decurrent petiole (a wide leaf stalk that appears to be a continuation of the needle) -
Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica)

OR

Needles are more or less linear (with parallel sides), and are attached to twigs by sterigmata (distinct peg-like bases that remain on the twig after the needle falls)

Hand lens
Needles awl-shaped with a decurrent petiole (close-up image) Needles linear, attached by sterigmata (close-up image)
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