Plants are incredibly important for carbon capture and storage, especially at this critical time where carbon dioxide levels are driving the climate emergency. They also provide food and shelter both while they are alive and dead. For example seeds, berries and fruits are produced at different times of the year. When the tree dies or sheds its branches and leaves they fall to the ground where they become food or shelter for animals that live on the forest floor. Below we have profiles of some of the plants that you may find in Epping forest.
Trees and other plants
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Oak
Find out moreEasily recognisable from its lobed leaves and acorns in the summer, the Oak tree is one of the most wide-spread species in Epping forest
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Beech
Find out moreThe most colourful canopy in the autumn belongs to the Beech tree. Its seeds known as masts litter the forest floor every year, these were a popular food source for pigs that were put out for pannage.
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Hornbeam
Find out moreOften confused with the Beech tree, Hornbeam can be told apart by its leaves serrated edges. The word Hornbeam means "hard wood" in fact, it's the hardest of any tree in europe. In late autumn Hornbeam seeds known as "samaras" can be seen spinning as they drift to the ground.
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Silver birch
Find out moreThe white papery bark of the Silver birch makes it stand out in the forest and easy to spot. Known as a "pioneer" species, it is often one of the first trees to grow in an area that is cleared of other plants. Its bark makes an excellent tinder to start a fire.
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Forest flowers
Find out moreThe forest, with its mosaic of different habitats, has a wonderful variety of plants which flower from early spring through to autumn, providing pollen and nectar for many different invertebrates and a beautiful display for humans!
