Shrubland may be found in arid and semi-arid areas in warm to temperate zones. Shrubland may also be found as a successional stage back to forest on previously-disturbed land. Shrubland is characterized by low, woody plants called shrubs, which often grow in dense thickets. Some types require fire. These plants usually have deeper roots sooner than grasses or trees.
Deserts are areas where evaporation exceeds rainfall.
Not all deserts are warm, and it is possible to have a cold desert. Some deserts may supply sufficient water for life. Due to the low humidity and water level, there typically are wide daily temperature fluctuations. Rain is brief, heavy, and seldom, and the plants have evolved such that their flowering schedule coincides with available rainfall. Tundra may be divided into arctic and alpine tundras.