Wiregrass immediately after a burn

Description:

This area had just been subjected to a "prescribed burn" less than 24 hours ago. Indeed, it was still smoldering in places. This wiregrass looks dead, but it isn't. It is "top-killed", but the roots go deep, and will quickly sprout back up.

Habitat:

Wekiva State Park, Apopka, florida. Restored. Upland Pine Sandhill.

Notes:

Fires are essential for the health of Florida pine forests. When a pine forest is healthy, most of the underbrush is kept down below 3 - 5 feet. A fire will burn "low and slow", killing any woody undergrowth like vines and unwanted oaks. The heat from the fire only penetrates about 6", so plants that belong in these ecosystems have adapted to frequent ground fires, and send their roots below that level. Although their tops may be killed, the roots are fine, and will send new shoots up almost immediately! I am looking forward to tracking the regeneration of this area, and will be sure to post pics. See the pic of the Longleaf pine bud also.