Semi-natural woodland

There are extensive areas of semi-natural woodland mainly on the White House side, and also on the Danefield side away from the traditional woodland plantation blocks.

Main species present:

Canopy and Shrub layers – Sessile Oak, Beech, Sycamore, Silver Birch, Rowan, Scots Pine, Wych Elm, Holly and Sweet Chestnut

Ground flora – Bracken, Broad Buckler Fern, Creeping Soft Grass, Tufted Hair-grass, Bluebells, Brambles, Rough Meadow-grass, Common Bent and Wood Sorrel

Plantation Woodland

Blocks of plantation woodland also cover extensive areas (mainly on the Danefield side) and consist of even-aged mixed broadleaved and coniferous species. In line with traditional forestry practices these trees have been planted close together to encourage vertical growth for maximum timber yields. Most plantation blocks are now approx. 50 years old. This traditional forestry management has led to many of the plantation blocks having a well-established timber crop.

Main species present:

Canopy layer – Beech, Western Hemlock-spruce, Sycamore, Larch, Scots Pine, Corsican Pine, Wych Elm and Sweet Chestnut

Ground flora – Bracken, Brambles and Broad Buckler Fern