Tuliptree Small-Stream Floodplain Forest vs. Red Maple Seepage Swamp

Similarities: Both are found on floodplains, although the Red Maple Seepage Swamp can also be found at the base of slopes even beyond the fringes of a floodplain. Skunk-cabbage can grow in both (though it doesn't show much above ground from late summer to winter).

Tips to Distinguish: However, the Red Maple Seepage Swamp is wet virtually all year, not just after floods. If you see large amounts of skunk-cabbage growing in spring and summer, you are probably in the Red Maple Seepage Swamp. Most of the wetlands in Rock Creek Park belong to the Tuliptree Small-Stream Floodplain Forest.