Physiognomy and Structure: No Data Available

Floristics: Abies grandis is the indicated climax tree species. Pseudotsuga menziesii along with Picea engelmannii (at the higher elevations) are the major seral tree species. Following disturbance, sites are frequently recolonized by Abies grandis, leading to even-aged stands dominated by a climax species. Occasional species are Pinus monticola, Pinus ponderosa, and Larix occidentalis. The shrub-layer species typically demonstrate low cover values. Species with high constancy are Acer glabrum, Rosa gymnocarpa, and Symphoricarpos albus. Their coverage declines with increasing stand age and canopy cover. There is high species richness and undergrowth coverage in the forb layer due to the moderate environment of this type. Asarum caudatum is diagnostic for this type. Clintonia uniflora, Tiarella trifoliata, and Maianthemum stellatum (= Smilacina stellata) are characteristically present. Other forbs, such as Coptis occidentalis, Prosartes hookeri (= Disporum hookeri), Polystichum munitum, or Synthyris platycarpa, may occasionally dominate this layer.

Cooper et al. (1991) recognize three phases of this type. The first, the Asarum caudatum typic phase, ranges from 640-1645 m (2100-5400 feet). It occupies gentle to steep slopes of all aspects, with warmer exposures more frequently represented. Coverage of forbs and warm-site shrubs such as Symphoricarpos albus, Holodiscus discolor, and Physocarpus malvaceus is increased relative to that found on the other phases, and persists late into the sere. Abies grandis and Pseudotsuga generally codominate seral stages. Cooper''s second phase is a Menziesia ferruginea phase occurring on the coolest upper elevations (greater than 1340 m [4400 feet]) with sites usually confined to steep northwest- through east-facing slopes or benchlands. A layer of Menziesia ferruginea dominates a tall-shrub stratum, which may include abundant Taxus brevifolia and Vaccinium membranaceum (= Vaccinium globulare). These sites have the greatest potential for supporting several seral tree species such as Picea engelmannii and Pseudotsuga. Cooper''s third phase is a Taxus brevifolia phase. This phase has been found only on the Nez Perce National Forest from 1220-1705 m (4000-5600 feet). It is most prevalent on moderate to steep slopes with warm, often protected exposures and ridgetop benches. Taxus brevifolia dominates the tall-shrub/small-tree layer, becoming so dense that some herbs, tree seedlings, and smaller shrubs are eliminated.

Dynamics:  Damping-off fungus takes a heavy toll of Abies grandis seedlings during wet seasons, and insolation and drought cause mortality during the dry summer months. Seedlings are well-established by the third year. Fire hazard is normally low to moderate under normal weather conditions (Fischer and Bradley 1987). Although this type does not occur in Fischer and Bradley''s study, this type is equivalent to their Group Eleven - warm, moist grand fir, western red-cedar, and western hemlock habitat types. The threat of fire is highest in the summer, when the moist maritime climate no longer prevails. During severe summer drought, heavy fuel loading from high plant productivity can set the stage for severe, widespread fires. Stands are replaced and sites revert to pioneer species. Summertime fuel-moisture conditions in young stands are not nearly as high as in older more dense stands, and the effects of fire are often more severe than they are in older stands. Surface fires often scar the base of the grand fir, creating favorable entry points for decay organisms. The initial floral component, seeds stored on site, and the accidents of natural seeding and seedling establishment, may structure the community following the fire more than the characteristics of the fire itself. Although generally true for all fire groups, it is more pronounced in this fire group. The use of fire for site preparation will usually result in increased spring and summer browse for big game in addition to successful regeneration of seral tree species.