A fully functioning longleaf ecosystem supports wildlife, creates a forest with economic benefits, and maintains an aesthetically pleasing habitat for the landowner. The underlying force that drives these functions is the presence of healthy groundcover.

Fire

Native groundcover species provide fine fuels necessary for prescribed burning, and can help deter invasive species that alter or preclude the natural role of fire.

Plant Diversity

The longleaf forest is one of the most diverse habitats in North America. This extraordinary diversity comes from the abundant plant life found in the longleaf ecosystem's groundcover, and the species of plants and animals that naturally evolved together.

Wildlife Diversity

Diversity in the groundcover plant community leads to diversity in the wildlife community. Many wildlife species require early successional habitats that prosper with frequent fire. Herbaceous grasses and wildflowers dominate these habitats.

Resources

• Keys to Successfully Restoring Longleaf Groundcover
• Restoring Longleaf: A Groundcover Perspective
• Understory Diversity 201 - Longleaf Academy Program
• Groundcover Restoration 201 - Longleaf Academy Program