Common (Translated Scientific) Name: Pitch Pine / Velvetleaf Huckleberry / Peatmoss species Swamp Woodland

Colloquial Name: Pitch Pine / Huckleberry Peat Swamp Woodland

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This northern pitch pine swamp occurs in poorly drained depressions in sand plains of the Great Lakes plain in New York. An impermeable soil horizon formed by iron oxide impedes drainage in areas of the sand plain allowing peat accumulation. The dominant tree in the open canopy is Pinus rigida. Common tree associates include Betula populifolia and Acer rubrum. The shrub layer is well-developed, dominated by Vaccinium corymbosum. Lesser amounts of Kalmia angustifolia and Aronia melanocarpa also make up the shrub layer, along with shrubs of more northern distribution, Vaccinium myrtilloides and Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides. The herb layer is made up of Gaultheria procumbens, Cornus canadensis, Pteridium aquilinum, and Maianthemum canadense. Sphagnum mosses make up the bryophyte layer. Although related to pitch pine swamps of pine barrens in the northeast and New Jersey, the presence of the northern species, Vaccinium myrtilloides, Viburnum nudum var. cassinoides, and Cornus canadensis, differentiates this type from its relatives in the alliance.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: No Data Available

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available