Name:
Pinus ponderosa - Pseudotsuga menziesii / Arctostaphylos nevadensis Woodland
Reference:
Western Ecology Working Group of...
Description:
Steep, rocky slopes near ridgetops that receive intense solar radiation are typical sites for this association. Aspects generally range from southeastern to western, and slope averages 50%. This association usually occupies small areas that are surrounded by more dense forest stands and unforested ridgetops. The rocky, shallow soils have so little moisture-holding capacity that these sites are effectively very dry for plant growth despite the substantial input of precipitation, which ranges from 147-229 cm (58-90 inches). These sites are exposed to high winds. Wind detracts from soil moisture status by blowing off snow, directly desiccating plants, and eroding soil. Elevation ranges from 1280 to 1400 m (4200-4600 feet) to the north and 1280 to 1555 m (4200-5100 feet) to the south. This association includes sparse, mixed age stands of <i>Pinus ponderosa</i> and <i>Pseudotsuga menziesii</i>. In the northern portion of its range trace amounts of <i>Abies grandis</i> occur. These sites are too exposed and hot for <i>Abies grandis</i> to thrive. At the southern end of its range scattered <i>Pinus lambertiana, Abies concolor</i> and <i>Calocedrus decurrens</i> can be found in the stands, and <i>Abies grandis</i> will not be found. Shrub growth is patchy, dominated by <i>Arctostaphylos nevadensis</i>. In the northern portion of the range common associated shrubs include <i>Arctostaphylos patula, Chrysolepis chrysophylla (= Castanopsis chrysophylla)</i>, and <i>Spiraea betulifolia</i>. Common herbaceous species include <i>Calamagrostis rubescens, Achnatherum occidentale (= Stipa occidentalis), Carex geyeri, Festuca occidentalis, Achillea millefolium, Pteridium aquilinum</i>, and <i>Penstemon</i> species. In the southern portion of the range common associated shrubs include <i>Quercus vacciniifolia, Symphoricarpos mollis, Mahonia aquifolium (= Berberis piperiana), Whipplea modesta</i>, and <i>Ceanothus integerrimus</i>. Common herbaceous species include <i>Lupinus albicaulis, Apocynum androsaemifolium, Moehringia macrophylla (= Arenaria macrophylla), Eriophyllum lanatum, Pyrola picta (= Pyrola dentata)</i>, and <i>Eriogonum</i> species.
Accession Code:
VB.CC.32898.CEGL000208
Plot-observations of this Community Concept:
0
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