In the oceanic part of northern Scandinavia, the treeline is formed by Betula. Conifers represented by Pinus sylvestris reach their maximum elevation c. 200 m below the Betula treeline. In more continental climates, the treeline is formed by Picea obovata and in western Siberia by Pinus sibirica, a close relative of Pinus cembra.

1 - The boreal/sub-arctic high elevation treeline is formed by Betula pubescens ssp. at 700 m at 69° N latitude.

2 - Treeline at 700 m

3 - Close to the pine treeline at 425 m

4 - Betula pubescens ssp. at 700 m

29 August 2011
© ALPECOLe 2002-2007