Floristics and distribution of Wattle Dry Sclerophyll Forests and Scrubs in north-eastern New South Wales

Abstract

'Acacia blakei' forests and scrubs of north-eastern NSW are described and compared to similar vegetation found in the south-east of the state, primarily dominated by 'Acacia silvestris'. Like those in the south, Northern Wattle Dry Sclerophyll Forests form often discrete stands with abrupt margins on steep slopes in rugged terrain on shallow often rocky soils. The structure is usually of a cohort with stems of an even height and size up to 20 m tall, and a sparse understorey with few grasses, herbs or shrubs. These systems are potentially maintained by infrequent extreme fire events. Notes are made on their management and conservation.