Common (Translated Scientific) Name: Netleaf Hackberry / Western Poison-ivy Wet Scrub

Colloquial Name: No Data Available

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This is a unique association found only in Hells Canyon, Oregon and Idaho, generally in moist areas below basalt rims on river terraces. The sites are generally up against the bottom of a basalt rim or steep rockfall, adjacent to or within a riparian area. Occurrences are found between 393 and 540 m (1290-1770 feet) elevation, on flats or moderate slopes (although the association will occasionally creep up steep, moist rockfalls and has at one site been found on a 40% slope). The tall-shrub or short-tree layer is dominated by Celtis laevigata var. reticulata (61% average cover). A shorter layer of shrubs is dominated by Toxicodendron rydbergii (20% cover), with other riparian shrubs usually found, including Philadelphus lewisii, Holodiscus discolor, Sambucus nigra ssp. cerulea, or occasionally Cornus sericea, Symphoricarpos albus, Frangula purshiana, Crataegus douglasii, Amelanchier alnifolia, and Prunus virginiana. The understory in these stands is quite variable, with forbs and grasses dominating. Non-native grasses and forbs (Bromus tectorum, Bromus sterilis, Bromus racemosus, Anthriscus caucalis, Rubus armeniacus) are important at sites with heavy grazing, while native forbs and grasses (Pseudoroegneria spicata, Elymus glaucus, Viola canadensis, Artemisia ludoviciana) are found in the few areas not impacted by cattle. This association is distinguished from similar types by a lack of an herbaceous understory.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: This appears to be a distinctive, local plant association, although of the 5 plots used to describe this type, two can be attributed to a broader definition of ~Celtis laevigata var. reticulata / Philadelphus lewisii Wet Scrub (CEGL000792)$$. A third plot has significant cover of Alnus rhombifolia and may also belong in another association. Basically, there are only two plots of the type that are clearly unique. In the field, this is more easily distinguished by environmental than vegetative components. For now, it is recognized as a type, although additional plot data should be obtained. Placement of Celtis laevigata var. reticulata-dominated stands into "woodland" as opposed to "shrubland" needs some review, as the physiognomy seems to be variable, and some authors consider these tall shrubs, and others consider it to be a small tree.

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available