Plant Identification

Sylvie uses a hybrid identification system with multiple steps:

1. On-device model (when available) — fast matches that can work offline
2. PlantNet (primary) — tried next for every identification
3. AI escalation (premium) — used for complex cases when cloud confidence is low

When a network ID is needed, the app sends your photo to these services and returns the best match with a confidence score.

Sometimes exact species identification isn't possible from a photo alone — for example, many Alocasia or Begonia species look very similar. In these cases, Sylvie will confirm the genus (plant group) with high confidence and provide care guidance that applies to the whole group. You can optionally tap a suggested species to refine if you know which one you have.

Think we got it wrong? Flag an incorrect identification from the plant profile, and if our team agrees, you'll get the ID credit refunded.

• Anonymous (not signed in): 3 IDs per day
• Signed In (free): 10 IDs per day
• Premium: Unlimited

Limits reset at midnight (local time). You can check your remaining IDs in Settings. There's also a 5-second cooldown between attempts to prevent accidental double-taps.

If identification isn't working well, try these tips:

• Take a clearer photo with better lighting
• Focus on a single leaf or flower rather than the whole plant
• Use the organ type selector (leaf, flower, fruit, bark) for more accurate results
• If the plant is rare or unusual, consider adding it manually

For genera with many similar-looking species (like Alocasia, Begonia, or Philodendron), Sylvie may confirm the genus without pinpointing the exact species. This is often more accurate than guessing the wrong species, and the care guidance still applies.

If you see "No internet connection," most identifications require an active connection. On-device matches (when available) can still work offline. You can also add plants manually while offline and identify them later.