Bramble and tall herb vegetation occurs on well-drained mineral soils where herbivores are excluded or where grazing levels are very low. It occurs on a wide-range of soil types but where it occurs on neutral to base-rich soils, it may be species-rich. Bracken may be abundant.

Where there is an adequate tree seed source, this habitat is transitional to woodland. It will be attractive to grazing animals, especially deer and cattle and moderate grazing levels will reduce the height and abundance of the herbage. Sustained grazing pressure will convert it to a grassland habitat with the loss or suppression of many of herb species.

Tall herb vegetation with iris and sedges may occur in wet but well-aerated peats and silts (e.g. fens). Where there is an adequate tree seed source and low grazing levels, it may develop into willow woodland. It will be attractive to grazing animals and moderate grazing levels will reduce the height and abundance of the herbage. Sustained grazing pressure will result in the loss or suppression of many of the herb species.

This habitat does not need grazing to maintain its biodiversity value but may need at least moderate grazing to prevent succession to woodland. In section 6 of these guidance notes you will find guidance on setting stocking densities in woodland containing significant areas of this habitat.

Fens are included in the UK Biodiversity Habitat Plan - Fens .