Vegetation of the southeastern Coastal Plain
Plant communities vary from grassland and savanna through shrubland to needle- and broadleaved sclerophyllous woodland and rich mesophytic forest, differences which can occur within a few hundred metres and an elevational shift of only 10m. Dramatic gradients in physical and chemical characteristics of soil and water, together with fire, lead to such a mosaic pattern. Vegetation history is indicated and the physical background outlined. Upland pine forest vegetation is described - northern pine barrens, xeric sand communities and mesic pine communities. Upland hardwoods are noted, and the vegetation of wetlands is discussed, distinguishing between alluvial and non-alluvial types. Interspersion and gradation with maritime vegetation is shown. Community and gap dynamics are reviewed, and the significance of succession is stressed. -P.J.Jarvis
