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Amphibolite Mountains

Ecoregion in Blue Ridge, Appalachian Mountains in NC, TN

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Similar to some parts of 66d, the Amphibolite Mountains are a botanically diverse area with many rare species, including some relict and disjunct species from areas much further north. The rugged, steeply sloping mountains are composed of Precambrian amphibolite and gneiss. The amphibolite, a metamorphosed black volcanic rock, formed from lavas that spilled on the floor of a shallow sea, mixing with layers of mud, sand, and volcanic ash. In some areas this rock weathers to produce shallow soils high in calcium and magnesium, and less acidic than most Appalachian soils. Oak forests (formerly American chestnut forests) dominate on south, east, and west facing slopes with an understory of Catawba rhododendron, mountain laurel, flame azalea, and dogwood. Cove forests and northern hardwood forests are found on north slopes, and include sugar maple, ash, yellow birch, tulip tree, and basswood.

— EPA

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