WL5B Larix kaempferi forest
Vegetation
This is a high forest community dominated by a dense canopy of Larix kaempferi (mean canopy height = 18.7 m, n = 34). Other tree species are only occasional with Ilex aquifolium and Sorbus aucuparia the most likely species to be found, either in a very sparse understorey or regenerating in the field layer. That field layer is typically patchy, usually consisting of some tufts of Agrostis capillaris or Agrostis canina/vinealis, some fronds of Dryopteris dilatata and stems of Rubus fruticosus, agg. but more vigorous growth can be found where the canopy opens up. Frequently found are Anthoxanthum odoratum, Holcus lanatus and Blechnum spicant and the heathy species Vaccinium myrtillus and Galium saxatile. The bryophyte layer is reasonably diverse with the main species being Thuidium tamariscinum, Hypnum jutandicum, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Rhytidiadelphus squarrosus, Kindbergia praelonga, Polytrichum formosum and Scleropodium purum. Some diligent searching is highly likely to yield some delicate stems of Lophocolea bidentata.
Ecology
These are commercial forestry stands that were commonly planted in marginal areas in the uplands in recent decades (mean slope = 5.7°, n = 34; mean altitude = 233 m, n = 34). The soils, mainly podzols and podzolic brown earths, are typically acidic and of low fertility and are drained prior to afforestation (mean organic content = 38.7%, n = 34). Included here are mainly closed-maturing and mature stands in which a dense needle layer is likely to develop.
Sub-communities
No sub-communities have been described for this community.
Similar communities
Due to the dominance of Larix kaempferi, mature stands of this type are unlikely to cause confusion. Where first rotation Japanese larch stands are still at a pre-thicket or thicket stage they may be best regarded as transitional between the present community and the previous vegetation, which is likely to be a type of wet grassland, heathland or bog.
Conservation value
These plantations are dominated by non-native species and are typically perceived as having a low conservation value. They are not particularly species-rich but have a reasonable bryophyte flora (total species/100 m2 = 25.3, n = 34; bryophyte species/100 m2 = 12.6, n = 34).
Management
Japanese larch stands are managed for timber production. Soon after planting, competitive native species, such as bracken, may be controlled by herbicides. Regularly thinning occurs from an early age until felling beween the age of 50 and 70. Spread of the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora ramorum threatens existing stands and planting this species is no longer incentivised.