Areas in Transition

Shrubs are often the pioneers of the plant world. For example, in locations that have been cleared and then abandoned, alder is often one of the first plants to appear, particularly if the ground is often wet in the area.

Alder builds up the soil by extracting nitrogen from the air and moving it into the earth around its roots. Alder leaves, which also accumulate nitrogen, are deposited around the alder thicket. The thick alder root mats help to hold soil together in wet locations or on the edges of open water. Eventually, the quality of the soil gets too good and other plants muscle out the alders. Alder thickets and wooded swamps are a favourite location for the American Woodcock, a North American shorebird.

Another shrub found in wet sites is willow. It prefers the edges of streams and bogs. It provides food for moose, Ruffed Grouse, beaver and deer. It also provides food and homes for many varieties of insects. The bark contains salicylic acid which is the basis for aspirin.

Staghorn Sumac is a pioneer shrub which prefers drier locations. It is related to cashews, pistachios and mangos, as well as the less-popular Poison Ivy. Its shallow wide-spread roots help prevent erosion. It provides food for many types of native songbirds as well as Ruffed Grouse and White-tailed Deer.

Leatherleaf is usually found in bogs or bog-like conditions: cold acidic, stagnant water with poor nutrient content. The "leather leaves" help the plant retain water. Its root clumps help provide a foothold for other shrubs and trees. This can eventually eliminate the boggy conditions that favour Leatherleaf.

More Information on Shrubs

[home]