Almost all forest types found in Finland are represented in Kaunissaari. The most common types on the island are birch-dominated herb-rich forests and herb-rich forests on mineral soils. On the shores and in the wetlands in the mid-part of the island, there are herb-rich forests dominated by black alder (Alnus glutinosa). The exposed bedrock areas on the northern shore are dominated by ancient Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) with shield bark, which was already growing here when the sawmill was active. Most of the trees on the island have grown since the end of the sawmilling activities. Kaunissaari is naturally very fertile and five decades of settlements and industry have further increased the fertility of the soil. Here, in the wet herb-rich forests on the western part of the island, you can find many plants typical of herb-rich forests and wetlands that require a fertile and moist habitat, such as marsh cinquefoil (Comarum palustre), yellow iris (Iris pseudacorus), herb-paris (Paris quadrifolia), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) and marsh-marigold (Caltha palustris). Plant species typically found in herb-rich forests include wood-sorrel (Oxalis acetosella), may lily (Maianthemum bifolium) and red campion (Silene dioica). In sites with more light, you can also find lesser butterfly-orchids (Platanthera bifolia) or solid-tubered corydalis (Corydalis solida). 

Nearby attractions: South pier and sawmill of Kaunissaari, Katavankari, Northern harbour, Risunnokka of Kaunissaari, , Kaunissaari Market place

Coordinates (WGS84): P 61˚14, 202' I 21˚32, 117'

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Keywords: Lehto