Pinus sylvestris dominates in the open tree layer with a canopy closure of 30-60%, a height of 8-18 m level and a stand quality of IV-V (V.a), sometimes with admixtures of Picea abies or Picea obovata (up to 10 %), Betula pubescens linn. and in eastern areas also Larix sibirica. The northern boreal lichen-pine forests with mosses and dwarf shrubs are distinguished from the southern lying pine forests by the occurrence of bog species (Vaccinium uliginosum, Ledum palustre). In the dwarf shrub layer Empetrum hermaphroditum can dominate (E. nigrum) as well as Vaccinium vitis-idaea; the species assemblage of the lichen dominated moss layer is also specific. Dwarf shrubs expand particularly readily after fires, and their average degree of coverage is 5-20 %. The degree of coverage of the lichen-rich moss layer can reach 100 %. Norway: The Barbilophozio-Pinetum encompasses the subalpine, oligotrophic birch and pine forests of the Scandinavian mountains: The open tree layer consists of weakly growing, branched pines, spruces and birches. The herb layer is rich in dwarf shrubs. Lichens, mosses and peat-mosses can form a luxuriant carpet. At lowland sites with less rainfall the community is replaced by the Cladonio-Pinetum.