Coniferous

Predominantly thuja forests (Tetraclinis articulata) reach heights of about 15 m and are very open because of the characteristic slimness of the species' crowns. The undergrowth is therefore abundant and rich in species (Pistacia lentiscus, Pistacia atlantica, Quercus coccifera, Phillyrea media, Withania frutescens, heather [Erica multiflora], Rosmarinus sp., etc.). The herbaceous layer is also very well-developed and contains a wide range of species.

Predominantly Phoenician juniper forests are found on the coastal dunes of the Oran region, but also on the High Plateaux and the dry slopes of Algeria's mountains. They are open and low, and have often suffered severe degradation from human depredations. On dunes, Phoenician juniper is found in association with Olea europaea, Pistacia lentiscus, Withania frutescens, Jasminum fruticans, etc., whereas in mountain regions these forests are more open, and the main secondary species are prickly cedar, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and Globularia alypum.

Mountain juniper is less common and is found in cooler climates at higher altitudes.

last updated: Wednesday, October 6, 2004