Samples of frequently observed plant species from a 20-yr old abandoned surface coal mining area in eastern Ohio [USA] were collected in vegetated areas previously strip-mined and areas not previously strip-mined. These samples were analyzed by emission spectrophotometry for trace metal content (Mn, Fe, Al, Cu, Zn, Mo). Metal element content of plant species common to both strip-mined and unstripped areas was generally higher in amount for Fe, Al and Zn in the strip-mined stands, if a significant difference existed. However, Mn was found in generally higher concentrations in plants sampled from unstripped areas. Cryptograms usually contained greater amounts of metal elements than the phanerograms sampled. These results are discussed with regard to current research efforts in elemental cycling and also in terms of possible application to reclamation of areas disturbed by strip-mining. [Plants studied included basidiomycetes, lichens, bryophytes, pteridophytes and herbaceous and woody spermatophytes.].