SHADY WOODLAND

Before the region was urbanized, there were protrusions of dense forest that extended into the Austin area out of the north from the Cross Timbers ecological zone.  Continuous tree cover offers few breaks to allow sunlight to fully reach the ground, creating conditions for a specialized collection of plants that thrive in the dappled light beneath the trees.

ECOLOGY NOTEBOOK: SHADY WOODLAND
a.k.a.

The shady woodland condition can also be described in the following ways:

  • forest
  • woodland
  • bosque
  • dense shade
  • continuous canopy

 

DESIGN SUPPORT

Built structures to the south or dense tree canopy, along with slopes to the north and east can combine to create significantly lower-light conditions in certain landscape zones.   Landscapes with these conditions require special attention to improve ecosystem performance by utilizing vegetation with more characteristics found in the Cross Timbers.

REGIONAL ASSOCIATION