The Scottish mountain soils above 600 m occur in an environment strongly influenced by low temperatures, with associated cryogenic processes having a marked effect on their development and morphology. In the most extreme situations these cryogenic processes dominate the soils and it is suggested that the World Soil Classification (FAO-UNESCO, 1974) should be amended to include the major unit of Cryosols. Such a unit would also incorporate those soils of high latitudes, which are similarly dominated by freeze-thaw cycles.A second distinctive group of soils occurs in the Scottish mountains, which are developed on wind-distributed material. Their existence and continued development are largely dependent on the action of wind and the name proposed for these soils is Aeolisols. Such soils are to be found at lower altitudes also, wherever strong winds prevail and there is a supply of material suitable for movement by wind over fairly short distances.

The plant communities on serpentine are named, classified and briefly described. Vegetation specific for serpentine belongs to the Violetea calaminariae, the class of communities on heavy metal soils. Other individual associations occur on serpentine soils but these are part of more general classes. The relationship of the separate vegetation units with the soils and their range in climate are outlined.

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