Physiognomy and Structure: No Data Available

Floristics: This shrubland association has moderately open to dense herbaceous cover (28-89%) with an open to closed short-shrub layer. The dominant shrub, Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, typically has 5-45% cover, though some stands may have more or less. Scattered Pinus edulis, Juniperus osteosperma, and Juniperus scopulorum trees (2-5 m tall) may provide up to 5-10% cover. In addition to Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, other tall, short, and dwarf-shrubs that may be found are Atriplex gardneri, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, Ericameria nauseosa, Ephedra viridis, Gutierrezia sarothrae, Sarcobatus vermiculatus, and succulents such as Opuntia spp. The herbaceous stratum varies in cover and diversity but is always dominated by non-native, invasive species, especially Bromus tectorum. Other non-native species present to abundant include Alyssum desertorum, Ceratocephala testiculata (= Ranunculus testiculatus), Chenopodium album, Erodium cicutarium, non-native Lepidium species, and Taraxacum officinale. Native herbaceous species are often present, but in such relatively small amounts that the native association cannot be determined. Common native graminoids that may be present in small amounts include Achnatherum hymenoides, Aristida purpurea, Bouteloua gracilis, Vulpia octoflora, Elymus elymoides, Elymus lanceolatus, Hesperostipa comata, Pascopyrum smithii, Poa fendleriana, and Pleuraphis jamesii. Native forbs that may be present in small amounts include Astragalus nuttallianus, Descurainia pinnata, Erigeron concinnus, Heterotheca villosa, Phacelia crenulata, Plantago patagonica, Sphaeralcea coccinea, and Trifolium gymnocarpon. Biological soil crust cover is sparse.

Dynamics:  Stands of this association have been disturbed, either by heavy domestic livestock grazing, or frequent wildfires, or both. Species composition and abundances reflect this, with non-native grazing-induced increasers often abundant.