Common (Translated Scientific) Name: Lodgepole Pine / Five-petal Cliffbush Forest

Colloquial Name: No Data Available

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This association is well-documented in Rocky Mountain National Park where it typically occurs on somewhat steep to steep (26-100%), north- or east-facing midslopes between 2550 and 2900 m (8370-9520 feet) elevation. Surficial geology is granitic and may exist as exposed rock in as much as 10-35% of the surface area. Soil texture typically is sandy loam and is moderately well-drained to rapidly drained. Litter and duff layering may comprise 35-70% of the surface area of the stand. The forest canopy of this association is typically 10-15 m tall and provides coverage over 50-70% of the stand. The tree canopy is strongly dominated by Pinus contorta (40-70%), and occasionally Pseudotsuga menziesii may be present with moderate cover. Jamesia americana dominates the understory shrub stratum with coverage ranging from 20-40%. Other shrubs that may be present include Juniperus communis, Populus tremuloides, Shepherdia canadensis, Acer glabrum, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Mahonia repens, Physocarpus monogynus, Ribes montigenum, Rosa woodsii, and Vaccinium myrtillus; however, few rarely reach >5% cover. There is no distinct herbaceous layer in this association, though forbs and graminoids do exist in low concentrations.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: Many lower subalpine, spruce-fir and upper montane Douglas-fir forest and woodland stands include Pinus contorta trees in a mixed-conifer canopy. To clarify classification, only stands with tree canopies strongly dominated by Pinus contorta (usually >2/3 tree canopy) are considered to be Pinus contorta woodland and forest associations.

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available