SERPENTINE CHAPARRAL (37600) :


Scrubby sclerophyllous shrublands dominated by any of several shrubs or small conifers that are edaphically restricted to serpentine. Species composition varies widely. Two main types are recognized: Mesic Serpentine Chaparral (37610) dominated by Adenostoma fasciculatum and Heteromeles arbutifolia; and Leather Oak Chaparral (37620) with clear dominance by Quercus durata.

SITE FACTORS:

Shallow, stony, infertile soils derived from serpentine. Usually below about 5,000 feet.

DISTRIBUTION:

Scattered throughout Central and Northern California, wherever serpentine outcrops occur.

UPDATE: 10/86

Source: Holland, 1986

Digital Text: NatureBase

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