Name:
Pinus ponderosa - Pseudotsuga menziesii / Arctostaphylos nevadensis Woodland
Reference:
NatureServe Biotics 2019
Description:
Steep, rocky slopes near ridgetops that receive intense solar radiation are typical sites for this association which occurs in Oregon and possibly northern California. 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 lowiana</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</i>, and <i>Spiraea betulifolia</i>. Common herbaceous species include <i>Calamagrostis rubescens, Achnatherum occidentale, 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, Whipplea modesta</i>, and <i>Ceanothus integerrimus</i>. Common herbaceous species include <i>Lupinus albicaulis, Apocynum androsaemifolium, Moehringia macrophylla, Eriophyllum lanatum, Pyrola picta</i>, and <i>Eriogonum</i> species.
Accession Code:
urn:lsid:vegbank.org:commConcept:29117-{F9760A14-803A-4FE2-B78D-A6A843B3897C}
Plot-observations of this Community Concept:
0
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