SC1C Pteridium aquilinum – Rubus fruticosus agg. scrub
Vegetation
This community is dominated by the broad fronds of Pteridium aquilinum, which can form dense chest- or even head-high expanses. Beneath are frequently the thorny stems of Rubus fruticosus agg. and some tufts of Holcus lanatus. Some spiny growth of Ulex europaeus is occasional. In the lowlands, components may include tall tussocks of Arrhenatherum elatius and some patchy cover of Agrostis stolonifera or Ranunculus repens. In the uplands, there may be species of acid grasslands present, such as Galium saxatile, Potentilla erecta or Agrostis capillaris.
Ecology
Records of this community currently come from hedgebanks and field boundaries in the lowlands, dune systems from the coast, upland margins and bogland.
Sub-communities
No sub-communities are described.
Similar communities
This community is rather closely aligned with the SC1D Ulex europaeus – Rubus fruticosus agg. scrub. Whilst still a constant there, Pteridium is much less abundant and clearly subordinate to Ulex.
Conservation value
Vegetation corresponding to this community is typically of relatively low botanical value, but bracken can provide valuable habitat for bird, mammals and invertebrates. Where dense bracken spreads on to grasslands and heathlands it can reduce the ecological value of those habitats. Species/4 m2 = 11.4, n = 29.
Management
Field boundaries may be lost due to enlargement of fields, agricultural improvement and urban developments. Where spread of bracken is an issue on heathland or grassland, it may be controlled by cutting, rolling or spraying.