Formation of phytogenic hillocks in Southern Poland

We discuss the issues related to the formation of phytogenic hillocks on sand massifs in the eastern part of the Silesian Highlands. These regions formed on originally deflated fossil soils. The formation processes of hillocks are directly associated with the growth of Salix arenaria. The spread of Salix arenaria in deflation regions is not accidental but exhibits a direct linkage with underlying substrate, especially with the emergence of silt material in it. Species that colonize such regions form propagation cores of vegetation through the spread of secondary roots. Adventitious (daughter) branch roots of Salix arenaria that are responsible for the formation of phytogenic hillocks develop along the main mother roots.