Robert W. Freckmann Herbarium University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

Natural Communities
Keyword: Shrub Carr

Click on community name for photo gallery.

Alder thicket
These wetlands are dominated by thick growths of tall shrubs, especially speckled alder (Alnus incana). Among the common herbaceous species are Canada bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis canadensis), orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), several asters (Aster lanceolatus, A. puniceus, and A. umbellatus), boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), rough bedstraw (Galium asprellum), marsh fern (Thelypteris palustris), arrow-leaved tearthumb (Polygonum sagittatum), and sensitive fern (Onoclea sensibilis). This type is common and widespread in northern and central Wisconsin, but also occurs in the southern part of the state.

Shrub-carr
This wetland community is dominated by tall shrubs such as red-osier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera), meadow-sweet (Spiraea alba), and various willows (Salix discolor, S. bebbiana, and S. gracilis). Canada bluejoint grass (Calamagrostis canadensis) is often very common. Associates are similar to those found in Alder Thickets and tussock-type Sedge Meadows. This type is common and widespread in southern Wisconsin but also occurs in the north.

Offsite resources:
Virginia Kline's collection of the Vegetation of Wisconsin
Michigan Natural Features Inventory Community descriptions