Mediterranean Forest Plants
The Mediterranean forest biome is characterized by a diverse range of plant species uniquely adapted to its hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Found in regions like southern Europe, parts of California, coastal areas of Chile, southwestern Australia, and parts of South Africa, this biome supports sclerophyllous vegetation—plants with thick, leathery leaves designed to minimize water loss.
Dominant vegetation includes evergreen shrubs and small trees, collectively known as maquis or chaparral depending on the region. Iconic examples include cork oaks, olive trees, and holm oaks. These plants often have deep root systems, enabling them to access groundwater during prolonged dry periods. Many are also fire-resistant or regenerate quickly after wildfires, a common disturbance in this biome.
The undergrowth is rich with aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, and lavender, which release essential oils that not only deter herbivores but also reduce water loss. Grasses and seasonal wildflowers add to the biodiversity, blooming vividly in spring after winter rains.
Sclerophyllous Plants
The vegetation in Mediterranean forests typically includes evergreen shrubs and small trees with hard, leathery leaves. These adaptations help plants survive the long, dry summers.
Mixed Woodlands
These forests can also include a mix of broad-leaf evergreen trees and deciduous trees, along with various shrubs and herbaceous plants.
Fire Adaptation
Many plants in this biome are adapted to periodic wildfires, which are a natural part of the ecosystem. Some species have seeds that require the heat of a fire to germinate.
Mediterranean Plants
| Trees | Cork Oak, Holm Oak, Olive Tree, European Beech, Hungarian Oak, Bay Laurel, Strawberry Tree, Sweet Chestnut, Carob Tree, Aleppo Pine, Manna Ash, Stone Pine, Downy Oak, Terebinth, Valonia Oak, Jerusalem Thorn, Wild Pear, Portuguese Oak, Phillyrea, Kermes Oak, Service Tree, Wild Pistachio, Algerian Oak |
| Shrubs | Rosemary, Lavender, Rock Rose, Myrtle, Juniper, Spanish broom, Lentisk, Oleander, Mastic, Tree Germander |
| Herbs | Mediterranean wild thyme, Oregano, Basil, Marjoram, Parsley, Fennel, Sage, Coriander, Dill, Chamomile, Mint, Tarragon, Winter savory |
| Grasses | Wild oat, Mediterranean grasses, Fescue, Brome, Barley grass, Ryegrass, Bluegrass, Bentgrass, Quaking grass, Canary grass, Needlegrass, Stipa, and Foxtail |
| Climbers and Vines | Ivy, Wild grape, Wisteria, Clematis, Jasmine, Passionflower, Smilax (also known as sarsaparilla), Morning glory, Trumpet vine, Virginia creeper, Black bryony |
