Cedar swamp in Michigan, USA. Welcome to a groundwater fed conifer swamp dominated by northern white cedar trees, sedges, ferns, forbs, and bryophytes. Northern white cedars are relatively short (up to 20 m) and form a low, dense canopy, often preventing other trees species from establishing in this forested wetland. Windthrow is common in cedar swamps creating a complex tangle of leaning, fallen trees, exposed roots, and hummocks. This conifer swamp characteristically has a shorter and cooler growing season than the surrounding uplands, while winters are milder and more consistent in temperature creating an ideal winter shelter for wildlife.