chaparral

/ˈʃæpəˌræl/

/tʃæpəˈræl/

Other forms: chaparrals

Chaparral is a type of dense, thorny thicket with shrubby plants and small trees. Places with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters — like parts of California — are most likely to have chaparral.

Chaparral is a rugged landscape where hardy plants like scrub oaks and manzanita thrive. This unique ecosystem is found in regions like central and southern California, northern Mexico, and coastal areas around the Mediterranean Sea. Chaparral supports diverse wildlife and has adapted to withstand fires and droughts. With its thick, thorny bushes and resilient inhabitants — like mountain lions, jackrabbits, rattlesnakes, and coyotes — chaparral showcases nature's ability to flourish in challenging environments.

Definitions of chaparral

1. noun

   dense vegetation consisting of stunted trees or bushes
   synonyms: bush, scrub

   type of:

   botany, flora, vegetation

   all the plant life in a particular region or period