Common (Translated Scientific) Name: (Torrey''s Joint-fir, Mormon-tea) / Mixed Semi-Desert Grasses Shrubland

Colloquial Name: No Data Available

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This shrubland association is currently described from Grand Canyon National Park and Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument in Arizona. More survey and classification work are needed to fully characterize this type. It typically occurs on sideslopes at 950 to 1400 m (3125-4600 feet) elevation, but can be found as low as 775 m (2600 feet). It is primarily found on moderate gradients (15-22°) and southern aspects, but is also occasionally found on steeper slopes (30-35°). Soils are rapidly-drained silty or sandy loams. Vegetation is characterized by the dominance of the short shrub Ephedra torreyana together with a well-developed mixed-species graminoid understory. Tall shrubs are absent. The short-shrub layer also occasionally includes Encelia resinifera, Rhus trilobata, and Ephedra viridis. Gutierrezia sarothrae and Opuntia polyacantha are common components of the dwarf-shrub stratum. A rich and varied graminoid understory that includes Muhlenbergia porteri, Bouteloua eriopoda, and Tridens muticus characterizes this association. Pleuraphis jamesii occasionally occurs, as do Achnatherum speciosum, Dasyochloa pulchella, and Aristida purpurea. The non-native Bromus rubens also occurs in most stands. Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia, Artemisia ludoviciana, Eriogonum inflatum, and Acourtia wrightii occasionally occur in the forb understory.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: No Data Available

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available