Silver beech is dominant in this ecosystem. Hall’s tōtara is widespread, but generally in low numbers rather than clusters. Other conifers such as rimu, miro, and kahikatea also occur sporadically at lower elevations in wet climates. In the sub-canopy, kāmahi is common along with red beech, mountain beech and kāpuka/broadleaf.

The expected natural range* of silver beech forest is 1,781,533 hectares.

*area this ecosystem could occupy without the presence of people.