Oak–heath forest
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An oak–heath forest is a plant community association and type of forest ecology. It is a deciduous forest type of well-drained, acidic soils, characterized by oaks (Quercus) and plants of the heath family (Ericaceae).[1] It is commonly found in the high elevations of the eastern United States. [citation needed] Such forest areas typically have a dense fibrous root layer at the surface of the soil, and in many areas predominate on south-facing or southwest-facing slopes.[citation needed] Many of the existing oak–heath forests once featured American chestnut as an important canopy species.[2]