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Vegetation Descriptions
Central Coast and Montane Ecological Province - Zone 6

Note: Central California Coast Section (261A) is referred to as the "Coast" Section and Central California Coast Ranges Section (M262A) is referred to as the "Ranges"Section

Note the slope gradients are as follows:

• high gradient or steep (greater than 50%)
• moderate gradient or moderately steep (30% to 50%)
• low gradient (less than 30%)

CONIFER FOREST / WOODLAND

AB
SANTA LUCIA FIR ALLIANCE

Santa Lucia Fir (Abies bracteata) is found only in the Santa Lucia Range (Los Padres NF) as a narrow endemic species, usually within 15 miles (24 km) of the coast (Coast Section). This Fir is the dominant conifer in this Alliance but it also occurs as scattered inviduals or clumps of trees within the Mixed Conifer - Fir areas. It is most common near the crest of the mountains and towards the north, where it often associates with Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) and other hardwoods in droughty summit sites, on rocky slopes or in protected ravines. Slopes are usually steep and less fire-prone than other mixed hardwood areas of the forest. Elevation ranges are in the order 2000 - 5000 ft (610 - 1524 m).

DF
PACIFIC DOUGLAS-FIR ALLIANCE

Pacific Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is generally limited to northern, central and eastern California but occurs in scattered stands south to the Santa Ynez Mountains (Los Padres NF) close to the coast (within the South Coast and Montane Ecological Province). Within the Central Coast and Montane Ecological Province, the Alliance has been mapped in the Santa Lucia Range south of the Ventana Wilderness (Los Padres NF) in a limited area below about 3300 ft (1010 m). Conifer associates in this area are Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) with Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus) the main hardwood associate in this area. Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) and Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) usually are secondary hardwood associates. Mixed Douglas-fir/Tanoak stands usually occur on north-facing, steep slopes in the Coast Section.

DM
BIGCONE DOUGLAS-FIR ALLIANCE

Bigcone Douglas Fir (Pseduotsuga macrocarpa) stands are found in the South Coast, Transverse and Peninsular Ranges from the Mt. Pinos region south and westward into the Central Coast area. This Alliance occurs very sparsely in the Central Coast area. On protected, mesic canyon slopes, Bigcone Douglas Fir is locally dominant with Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) as an associate at elevations as low as 3800 ft (1158 m) or less up to about 5000 ft (1524 m) in the Ranges Section. It occurs intermingled with trees of the Mixed Conifer - Fir Alliance in its higher elevations such as Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) and White Fir (Abies concolor). Both pure and mixed conifer/hardwood stands are more often to be found on north-facing, steep slopes.

KP
KNOBCONE PINE ALLIANCE

The Knobcone Pine (Pinus attenuata) Alliance occurs in both the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Santa Lucia Range. This closed cone species normally maintains small, dense stands on xeric, shallow or serpentine soils, which are sometimes mapped within larger Alliances of this area. The Knobcone Pine Alliance is a result of past disturbances (usually fire) and is mixed with species such as Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis), Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) and Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana). Associated shrubs include Shrub Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii var. frutescens), Wedgeleaf Ceanothus (Ceanothus cuneatus), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) and Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.). It has been mapped at elevations up to 2800 ft (852 m), mainly on steep and often north-facing slopes in both the Coast and Ranges Sections.

MG
GOWEN CYPRESS ALLIANCE

This Alliance is dominated by Gowen Cypress (Cupressus goveniana). It grows in disjunct groves on mesic soils just south of Monterey Bay at elevations below 1000 ft (305 m). Major groves of Gowen Cypress occur inland on the western slopes of Huckleberry Hill and in San Jose Creek (Monterey County). This Alliance has not yet been mapped.

MM
MONTEREY CYPRESS ALLIANCE

This Alliance occurs natually between Cypress Point and Pescadero Point and near Point Lobos in Monterey County, but has not yet been mapped in this region. Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), the dominant species, often associates with Salal (Gaultheria shallon) and Rhododendron spp., representing cool, moist climate and mesic soils. It has been extensively planted outside of its natural range.

MS
SARGENT CYPRESS ALLIANCE

Sargent Cypress (Cupressus sargentii) has a more extensive distribution than many Cypress species in California. In the Central Coast and Montane Zone, groves of Sargent Cypress are restricted to serpentine, rocky or shallow ultrabasic soils, especially in the Santa Lucia Range. They are commonly found along creeks below about 3000 feet (914 m) adjacent to other conifer and chaparral Alliances and in burned areas, this Cypress may form dense thickets. Associated species are Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana) and scattered Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) individuals. Understory species are Wedgeleaf Ceanothus (Ceanothus cuneatus), Leather Oak (Quercus durata) and Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia). The Sargent Cypress Alliance has been mapped in the Coast Section on moderately steep to steep slopes.

MZ
SANTA CRUZ CYPRESS ALLIANCE

Santa Cruz Cypress (Cupressus abramsiana) grows primarily in the Santa Cruz Mountains. It associates with chaparral species on non-serpentine soils but Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) and Knobcone Pine (Pinus attenuata) may also be present on these sites. Its elevational range is 1000 - 2200 ft (300 - 670 m) above coastal summer fog. This species has not been yet mapped in this region.

PC
COULTER PINE ALLIANCE

Scattered Coulter Pine (Pinus coulteri) stands can be found throughout the Santa Lucia Mountains, and in interior areas from Santa Barbara County to San Francisco Bay in this region. Coulter Pine has not been identified in the Santa Cruz Mountains, however. Open, woodland-like stands with a shrub understory develop in this Alliance at elevations as low as 1000 ft (304 m) in both Coast and Ranges Sections. The majority of pure and mixed conifer/hardwood stands are below 5000 ft and, especially in the Ranges Section, have a preference for steep, north-facing slopes. On xeric slopes in the Ranges Section, Coulter Pine mixes with Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis), and on serpentine soils with Jeffrey Pine (Pinus jeffreyi). Its principal hardwood associate is Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) in the mapped areas, but it also occurs at slightly lower elevations with Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) in the Coast Section.

PD
GRAY PINE ALLIANCE

Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana) reaches its southernmost extent in the Santa Ynez Mountains (Los Padres National Forest) and northwestern areas of the Angeles NF close to the San Joaquin Valley. The Alliance is usually an open woodlands type with a diverse mixture of hardwoods such as Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), Valley Oak (Quercus lobata), Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii), Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) and Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) and low-elevation chaparral shrubs with Gray Pine as the only conifer. It has been mapped in locations below 3200 ft (975 m) in the La Panza and Santa Lucia Ranges (Los Padres NF) and elswhere in both the Coast and Ranges Sections. Sites tend to be north-facing in the Ranges Section.

PJ
PINYON - JUNIPER

Singleleaf Pinyon Pine (Pinus monophylla) dominates mid-montane xeric sites in the Central Coast. This semi-arid open woodland Alliance has been mapped in transmontane, semi-arid regions of the Los Padres NF of the Central Coast and Montane Ecological Province such as those in the rain shadow of the San Rafael Mountains. Elevations are generally under 5000 ft (1524 m) in the Ranges Section. The shrub California Juniper (Juniperus californica) occupies sites in this Alliance at lower elevations and often on gentle slopes or alluvium. Other understory species in the Alliance include Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata var. glandulosa) and Tucker or Palmer Oak (Quercus john-tuckeri, Quercus palmeri).

PP
PONDEROSA PINE ALLIANCE

The Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) Alliance has been mapped abundantly in the Central Coast and Montane Province in the Coast Section, mainly in mixed conifer/hardwood stands. Other conifers may be present but Ponderosa Pine is clearly dominant. It is confined to mesic slopes above chaparral species, but may occur withnin one-half mile of the coast. Ponderosa Pine mixes with Coulter Pine (Pinus coulteri) on these slopes. Other associates include Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii), Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) and Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), its main hardwood associate in this area. Occasionally Sugar Pine (Pinus lambertiana) will occur as a minor component in the Ponderosa Pine Alliance within the Santa Lucia Mountains. The Ponderosa Pine Alliance has been mapped at elevations up to about 4800 ft (1462 m), and especially with Tanoak, much of it on high-gradient slopes.

PR
MONTEREY PINE ALLIANCE

This Alliance, dominated by Monterey Pine (Pinus radiata), occurs naturally in three locations along the coast: Ano Nuevo Point, Monterey, and Cambria, although it has been planted throughout the world. It mixes with Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and Pacific Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Knobcone Pine (Pinus attenuata) and Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) may also be associated. Understory species include Bedstraw (Galium spp.) and Woolyleaf Manzanita (Arctostaphylos tomentosa). Monterey Pine occurs in almost pure stands of even age due to regeneration and site dominance after fire. It has been mapped in the Coast Section at elevations up to 1200 ft (366 m) in pure stands.

RW
REDWOOD ALLIANCE

Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is distributed in moist coastal areas generally below 2000 ft (610 m) from southern Oregon to the Santa Lucia Mountains (Los Padres NF), where the Alliance has been mapped in the Coast Section. Isolated stands may occur near springs, seeps and sheltered moist locations up to about 3200 ft (976 m) but Redwood often occurs in mixed confer/hardwood forest stands at those elevations. Those hardwood associates include Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), its main associate in this area, Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and California Bay (Umbellularia californica). At lower elevations, shrub associates such as Blue Blossom (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus) and Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) commonly occur. Redwood/Tanoak mixed stands have been mapped abundantly in the Coast Section, principally on elevations up to 2600 ft (792 m) and on steep, often north-facing slopes.

HARDWOOD FOREST / WOODLAND

NR
MIXED RIPARIAN HARDWOODS ALLIANCE

This mixed riparian hardwood Alliance describes the mixture of Willows (Salix spp.), Cottonwoods (Populus spp.), White Alder (Alnus rhombifolia) and other species where none are dominant. These species occur in moist areas and adjacent to stream courses in coastal areas and throughout the Ranges and Coast Sections. This Alliance is also found in foothill canyon bottoms adjacent to inland valleys. Red Alder (Alnus rubra) may be a prominent component along the coast north of San Luis Obispo County. Boxelder (Acer negundo), Dogwood (Cornus spp.) and Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) also may be present in the Alliance. In the Santa Cruz, Santa Ynez, and Santa Lucia Ranges, the Mixed Riparian Hardwoods Alliance occurs on coarse, gravelly soils below about 4600 ft (1402 m). It is found at lower elevations in the Coast Section. The Alliance includes smaller landscape units in which White Alder or Willows occur in pure stands.

NX
NON-PRODUCTIVE MIXED HARDWOODS ALLIANCE

A mixture of hardwoods with no clear single dominant species has been mapped broadly in both Coast and Ranges Sections of this area, as for example in the Suisun Hills and Valleys and in the East Bay Hills - Mt. Diablo Subsections. The species mixture usually includes California Bay (Umbellularia californica), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and California Buckeye (Aesculus californica) as prominent tree components. In addition, Blue and Valley Oaks (Quercus douglasii and Quercus lobata) and Pacific Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), often are associated with this Alliance. It is adapted to lower elevations, generally below 1600 ft (488 m) in the Ranges and below 3000 ft (915 m) in the Coast Sections on sites of moderately steep to steep gradients. Slopes very often have north-facing aspects.

QA
COAST LIVE OAK ALLIANCE

This Alliance, dominated by Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), occurs throughout the Southern Coast Ranges and has been mapped extensively in both the Coast and Ranges Sections. Coast Live Oak is readily found in pure stands in valleys and slopes generally below about 4400 feet (1340 m) elevation, associating with Monterey Pine (Pinus radiata), Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) and Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii). Southern California Walnut (Juglans californica) associates with Coast Live Oak on north slopes. Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) is often present and abundant in this Alliance. Coast Live Oak generally occurs on deep, mesic soils on near- coastal slopes where it forms denser forests and on alluvial terraces in more interior slopes, where it may form open savanna-like grasslands. It intergrades with the more interior Blue Oak Alliance in the Santa Lucia Mountains of the Central Coast region. Mapped sites tend to have steep gradients.

QB
CALIFORNIA BAY ALLIANCE

California Bay (Umbellularia californica) occurs in canyons, shaded slopes and moist sites in chaparral and woodland communities throughout much of California. It occasionally forms scattered small stands as a tree in more protected environments and in a more shrub-like form in exposed places and in the chaparral. It has been mapped in the South Coastal Santa Lucia Ranges (Coast Section), where it is more common in the elevation range 1000 - 1600 ft (305 - 488 m) on north-facing, medium to high gradient slopes. It also occurs in the Interior Santa Lucia Range (Ranges Section), occurring mainly on north and east facing slopes on similar gradients below 2000 ft (610 m). Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) is the most frequent hardwood associate, with Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), species of Ceanothus, shrub Canyon Live (Quercus chrysolepis) and shrub Interior Live (Quercus wislizenii) Oaks the more common shrub associates in this Alliance. It is found adjacent to the Coast Live Oak, Mixed Hardwoods and Annual Grass - Forb Alliances.

QC
CANYON LIVE OAK ALLIANCE

Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) occurs throughout the Central and Southern Coast Ranges as the dominant hardwood of this Alliance. It is frequently found on north-facing, steep, rocky canyon slopes up to an elevation of about 5600 ft (1706 m) in the Ranges Section. It may assume a shrub form (Quercus chrysolepis var. nana) on rocky summits and more exposed sites. In sheltered slopes and in mesic ravines closer to the coast, the hardwood associates of this Alliance include Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), Bigleaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum), and California Bay (Umbellularia californica). Pacific Douglas-Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Bigcone Douglas-Fir (Pseudotsuga macrocarpa), Gray Pine (Pinus sabinana) and Coulter Pine (Pinus coulteri) are conifer associates of this type in the Central Coast Province. Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia), is also associated with this Alliance.

QD
BLUE OAK ALLIANCE

Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii) forms open savanna-like woodlands on well-drained soils in low elevation sites throughout interior California. In both the Santa Lucia Range and interior savannas, it is a dominant hardwood in areas below about 3600 ft (1096 m) and has been mapped prominently in pure and mixed conifer/hardwood stands in both the Coast and Range Sections. It is often adjacent to or intermixed with the Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) Alliance and the Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana) Alliances where the trees occur in the same area. Blue Oak also occurs with and readily hybridizes with Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) in the Central Coast region. The Alliance is represented on most slope aspects and gradients in this area.

QF
FREMONT COTTONWOOD ALLIANCE

This riparian Alliance is dominated by Fremont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii). It may be found in pure stands along most streams and seeps below about 6500 ft (1982 m) or may mix with abundant California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa). White Alder (Alnus rhombifolia), Boxelder (Acer negundo), shrubby Willows (Salix spp.), Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), Marsh Baccharis (Baccharis douglasii) and other riparian species may occur less frequently. Black Cottonwood (Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa) replaces Fremont Cottonwood on the Carmel River. Bigleaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum) and Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) may occur within this Alliance further upslope from the riparian floodplains. Red Alder (Alnus rubra) may also be associated in coastal locations of Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Mateo Counties. The Alliance grades into the Mixed Riparian Hardwoods and Willow Alliance where riparian gradients are variable along the same streambed. It has been mapped sparsely on low-gradient slopes below the elevation of about 1400 ft (426 m) in the Ranges Section.

QI
CALIFORNIA BUCKEYE ALLIANCE

The distribution of this Alliance, dominated by the hardwood California Buckeye (Aesculus californica), is centered in Monterey, San Benito, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, and Merced Counties. California Buckeye may occur in shrub as well as tree form and is often found on steep, north facing mesic, dry or coastal sites. Forming dense stands on hillsides, it often associates with Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) in Monterey County. California Buckeye also occurs with Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii), Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana), Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii), California Bay (Umbellularia californica) and the shrub Hollyleaf Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia). It has been mapped as a dominant shrub very sparsely in the Ranges Section on steep slopes below about 1600 ft (488 m).

QK
BLACK OAK ALLIANCE

Black Oak (Quercus kelloggii) is scattered throughout the Central Coast region west of the Salinas River and north to San Francisco Bay. It generally occurs with Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) on dry slopes and is often a component of the Mixed Conifer - Fir and Coulter Pine Alliances. It also occurs in pure stands in this Alliance on mesic slopes at low to mid-montane elevations up to about 3400 ft (1036 m). These stands often develop as a result of intensive fires or other disturbance such as logging of conifers. They vary greatly in canopy closure from very dense to savanna-like. Soils are usually well-drained and have loamy textures. In addition to the conifers, other common associates in this Alliance are Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides), Eastwood Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glandulosa), Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii), Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia) and Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis). Black Oak may hybridize with Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii) and Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) where the species associate. Stands in this Alliance occur mainly on low-gradient slopes in the Ranges Section but on moderately steep to steep slopes in the Coast Section.

QL
VALLEY OAK ALLIANCE

Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) occurs in pure stands on low-elevation areas of the Central Coast and Montane Ecological Province as open woodlands with an understory of dry grasslands. The Alliance is often found on alluvial terraces or other sites that may retain more summer moisture than Blue Oak woodlands. It has been mapped in scattered stands in this area in the La Panza, Santa Lucia and Garcia Mountains, in the Suisan Hills and Valleys Subsection and elsewhere in the Coast and Ranges Sections. These elevations are usually below 3000 ft (914 m), and in the Ranges Section, usually on low-gradient slopes. Valley Oak associates with Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana) and Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis) near the coast in Monterey County and also with Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii).

QO
WILLOW ALLIANCE

This Alliance is is dominated by Willows (Salix spp.), most commonly the tree-like shrub Arroyo Willow (Salix lasiolepis), the trees Red and Pacific Willow (Salix laevigata, Salix lasiandra) and other shrub Willows (Salix coulteri, Salix hindsiana, Salix melanopsis, Salix scouleriana) in the Central Coast region. It usually occurs on low-gradient stream reaches near the coast from Monterey southward. Associates in the broader area of this stringer-like Alliance include Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus occidentalis), Wild Rose (Rosa californica), Alders (Alnus spp.) and Black Cottonwood (Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa). It has been mapped at low elevations, below about 1800 ft (548 m).

QP
CALIFORNIA SYCAMORE ALLIANCE

Pure stands of California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) have been mapped sparsely in both the Coast and Ranges Sections of the Central Coast in riparian conditions. The Alliance is found at low elevations, usually less than 1800 ft (548). Common hardwood associates along these streams include Fremont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii), Willows (Salix spp.), White Alder (Alnus rhombifolia) and Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia).

QT
TANOAK (MADRONE) ALLIANCE

Tanoak (Lithocarpus densiflorus), widely distributed in coastal regions of northern and central California, reaches its southernmost extent in the Santa Ynez Mountains (Los Padres NF). Its range overlaps with that of Madrone (Arbutus menziesii) in this area and further north in the Santa Lucia Range of the Los Padres NF, one of the locations where the Alliance has been mapped. Tanoak may occur alone or in combination with Madrone as dominant hardwoods of this Alliance. Stands have been mapped in cismontane locations of the Coast Section on generally steep sites with elevations typically below about 4200 ft (1280 m). Associates in this area include Coastal Sage Scrub species such as Sages (Salvia spp.) and California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), low elevation chaparral species such as Wedgeleaf Ceanothus (Ceanothus cuneatus), conifers such as Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa), Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and Pacific Douglas-Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), and other hardwoods such as Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis).

QW
INTERIOR LIVE OAK ALLIANCE

The Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii) Alliance occurs both in interior valleys and seaward sides of the Coast Ranges, but generally is found in pure stands inland from the Coast Live Oak Alliance. Within the Santa Lucia Range and the Santa Cruz Mountains, Interior Live Oak also is an important understory species in the Redwood Alliance. Within interior valleys, Interior Live Oak associates with Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) and Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana) in savanna-like stands. It has been mapped sparsely in the Coast Section.

QZ
EUCALYPTUS ALLIANCE

Species of Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus polyanthemos and Eucalyptus tereticornis) have been planted throughout California. They have been mapped sparsely within managed landscapes at elevations usually below 1000 ft (304 m). These stands are widely scattered and are seldom extensive in nature, having been initially established through cultivation. Naturalization has occurred in disturbed areas, augmented by the ability of this genus to resprout after disturbance. Some of these Eucalyptus plantations are included within the Non-Native Alliance groups (Non-Native Ornamental Hardwood Alliance, etc.).

SCRUB AND CHAPARRAL

BC
SALTBUSH ALLIANCE

Species of Saltbush (Atriplex spp.) are dominant in this very sparsely mapped xeric, alkaline Alliance. Rubber Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) and Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) may be associated shrubs. Sites have been mapped between the elevations of 1400 - 1600 ft (426 - 488 m) in the Ranges Section.

BR
RABBITBRUSH ALLIANCE

Rubber Rabbitbrush and Stickyleaf Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus, Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus) occur in California south to Riverside County. This Alliance is dominated by either or both species, with the more commonly occurring Rubber Rabbitbrush able to grow on strongly alkaline as well as more neutral soils. The Rabbitbrush Alliance is often found on dry slopes or flats that have been subject to ground disturbance, rainshadow effects or abandoned agricultural practices. It has been mapped very sparsely in the southernmost areas of the Interior Santa Lucia Range and Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsections of the Ranges Section. Associated species in this area may include Saltbush species (Atriplex spp.), Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii), Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), Desert Almond (Prunus fasciculata), and especially California Juniper (Juniperus californica) and grasses.

BS
BASIN SAGEBRUSH ALLIANCE

Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) dominates this Alliance, having been mapped sparsely in dry interior and transmontane locations of the extreme southeastern areas of the Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsection of Ranges Section. It occurs there within an elevation band 1600 - 5200 ft (488 - 1586 m). Slopes are often of low gradient and soils are typically coarse, often deep and well drained. Typical sites are dry alluvial fans or washes.

CA
CHAMISE ALLIANCE

Relatively pure areas of Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) often develop on sites that are harsher in terms of having shallow soils, are more xeric or have sunnier environments (eg., south-facing slopes) than the adjacent Lower Montane Mixed Chaparral Alliance. Chamise may also dominate a site after disturbances such as intense, warm-season fires. Pure chamise stands exist in the Coast Ranges from San Mateo to Ventura County and have been mapped extensively in interior locations of the Ranges Section and abundantly in the Coast Section. The elevation of the Alliance is generally below about 5200 ft (1584 m) as mapped, occurring on moderately steep slopes in the Ranges and distinctly steep and frequently south-facing slopes in the Coast Sections. Very little other vegetation is found on these sites but Chaparral Yucca (Yucca whipplei) often occurs on more open sites. Minor amounts of common chaparral species such as Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.) and Ceanothus spp. may also be present.

CC
CEANOTHUS CHAPARRAL ALLIANCE

Chaparral in this region is occasionally dominated in small areas by species of Ceanothus in contrast to the more extensively occurring mixed chaparrals. This coastal to mid elevation shrub Alliance is identified by any of the following dominant species: Blue Blossom (Ceanothus thyrsiflorus), Bigpod (Ceanothus megacarpus), Wedgeleaf (Ceanothus cuneatus), Greenbark (Ceanothus spinosus), Carmel (Ceanothus griseus), Wavyleaf (Ceanothus foliosus), Wartleaf (Ceanothus papillosus), Glory Mat (Ceanothus gloriosus), Santa Barbara (Ceanothus impressus), Chaparral Whitethorn (Ceanothus leucodermis) or Hairyleaf Ceanothus (Ceanothus oliganthus) alone or in combination. Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) occurs throughout this area and is commonly associated with these species. Silk-tassel (Garrya fremontii) and Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides) may also be present in minor amounts. The Alliance typically occurs on cismontane slopes having mesic soils below about 3200 ft (974 m) in the Coast and Ranges Sections. All slope aspects are represented.

CK
COYOTE BRUSH ALLIANCE

Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis) dominates this Alliance in mixture with other species such as California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and annual species of grasses such as Bromus spp. The Coyote Brush Alliance has been mapped very sparsely in the South Coastal Santa Lucia Range of the Coast Section and in the Interior Santa Lucia Range of the Ranges Section at elevations below about 1600 ft (488 m). These stands occur on steep, south- and west-facing slopes in the Coast Section in association with California Bay (Umbellularia californica) and Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia). The Alliance is also adjacent to the Annual Grass - Forb, Mixed Hardwoods, and Mixed Soft Scrub Chaparral Alliances in that region.

CL
WEDGELEAF CEANOTHUS ALLIANCE

Wedgeleaf Ceanothus (Ceanothus cuneatus) may dominate low elevation sandy coastal habitats or more interior locations in the Central Coast area. The Wedgeleaf Ceanothus Alliance has been mapped very sparsely in the Interior Santa Lucia Range Subsection at elevations between 800 - 1000 ft (244 - 304 m). Its main associate in that inland area is Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia).

CQ
LOWER MONTANE MIXED CHAPARRAL ALLIANCE

This mixed shrub Alliance occurs extensively on cismontane low to moderate elevation slopes in the Central Coast area. Species composition varies according to climate, environment and geographic position but no one species is clearly dominant. Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum) is very common in the mixture as are species of Ceanothus, Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.), Chaparral Yucca (Yucca whipplei), Silktassel (Garrya spp.), Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides), Oak, especially Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia), Sumacs, such as Sugar Bush (Rhus ovata), Cherry, especially Hollyleaf Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia), and Redberry (Rhamnus ilicifoia or Rhamnus crocea). This Alliance has been mapped most typically in the elevation range 600 - 5200 ft (182 - 1584 m) on steep slopes in both the Coast and Ranges Sections.

CR
REDSHANK ALLIANCE

Redshank (Adenostoma sparsifolium) forms open and often pure stands in several discrete populations in central and southern California. It has been identified and mapped very sparsely in the Interior Santa Lucia Range Subsection of the Ranges Section, where it associates with species in the Mixed Soft Scrub Chaparral Alliance such as California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), Deerweed (Lotus scoparius) and White Sage (Salvia apiana). These sites are mainly north- and east-facing and fall within the elevational range 800 - 2400 ft (244 - 732 m).

CS
SCRUB OAK ALLIANCE

Scrub Oak (Quercus berberidifolia) or other shrubby oaks may become dominant species on steep, mesic or drier slopes at low to moderate elevations in the Central Coast area. In addition to Scrub Oak, any combination of shrub Interior Live Oak (Quercus wislizenii var. frutescens), Leather Oak (Quercus durata), and shrub Canyon Live Oak (Quercus chrysolepis var. nana) may be abundant in the Alliance. These oaks may fully re-occupy a site after intense fire due to their vigorous stump-sprouting ability. Other common chaparral associates may be present in minor amounts, including the shrubs Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides), Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia), Poison Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) and vines such as Cucumber Vine (Marah macrocarpus) and Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.). This Alliance has been mapped extensively, usually on North-facing, moderately steep to steep slopes. Elevations of this Alliance typically fall within the range 1200 - 2600 ft (366 - 792 m) in the Coast Section and 1000 - 4800 ft (304 - 1462 m) in the Ranges Section. The Scrub Oak Alliance merges with the Lower Montane Mixed Chaparral Alliance. Shrub oaks on very dry sites such as the northeastern rainshadow area of the Sierra Madre and San Rafael Mountains (Los Padres NF) are usually Tucker Oak (Quercus john-tuckeri) and are associated with species in the Pinyon-Juniper and Buckwheat Alliances.

CZ
SEMI-DESERT CHAPARRAL ALLIANCE

This transitional type develops on interior (transmontane) slopes of the Central Coast within the elevation of the Lower Montane Mixed Chaparral Alliance, but under xeric conditions. Sites are open and have an abundant mixture of common chaparral shrubs such as Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), Birchleaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus betuloides), Bigberry Manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) and subshrubs such as California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) with no dominant shrub species. In addition, at least one desert or semi-desert species indicator is prominent in this Alliance, such as Flannel Bush (Fremontodendron californicum), Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata var. glandulosa), Tucker or Palmer Scrub Oak (Quercus john-tuckeri, Quercus palmeri), Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus spp.), Prickly Pear (Opuntia sp.), Creosote Bush (Larrea tridenta), Desert Apricot (Prunus fasciculata), or Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata). This Alliance has been sparsely mapped at elevations between 1600 - 2400 ft (488 - 792 m) in the Ranges Section and on often moderately steep slopes.

DB
DESERT BUCKWHEAT ALLIANCE

This Alliance identifies the occurrence of California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) and other Buckwheats (Eriogonum spp.) found in true desert or desert-fringe environments in contrast to those found in more coastal or dry chaparral areas (California Buckwheat Alliance). This type is often initiated through fire or brush clearing. It has been mapped in the Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsection of the Ranges Section at elevations between 1600 - 2400 ft (488 - 732 m), on moderately steep and often south-facing slopes. Associated species in this area are Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) and California Juniper (Juniperus californica).

DE
ARROWWEED ALLIANCE

Arrowweed (Pluchea sericea) dominates this wetlands Alliance. It occurs in arid or xeric areas and has been mapped very sparsely in the Interior Santa Lucia Range and Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsections of the Ranges Section at elevations from 1200 - 1400 ft (366 - 426 m). Other associated species include Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia), Fremont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii) and Saltbush (Atriplex spp.).

DV
MIXED DESERT SUCCULENT SHRUB ALIANCE

In true desert areas, the Mixed Desert Succulent Shrub Alliance is composed of various combinations of leaf- and stem-succlulent plants, including Agave species, Cholla (Opuntia spp.), Yucca species and species of Cacti. Occasionally, Chaparral Yucca (Yucca whipplei) dominates a xeric site and would be identified in this Alliance. This type has been mapped very sparsely in the southern sectors of the Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsection of the Range Section at elevations in the elevation range 1400 - 2000 ft (426 - 610 m) on distinctly low-gradient and south-facing slopes. In this area, the associated alliances and species are California and Desert Buckwheats (Eriogonum fasciculatum, Erigonum spp.), Valley Oak (Quercus lobata) and Annual Grasses such as Bromus spp.

JC
CALIFORNIA JUNIPER ALLIANCE

California Juniper (Juniperus californica) is generally shrub-like in southern California, and is dominant in this Alliance. It has been mapped abundantly as a pure type in the Caliente Range - Cuyama Valley Subsection of the Ranges Section. California juniper associates with California Buckwheat (Eriogonum californicum), Basin Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), Blue Oak (Quercus douglasii) and dry grasses such as Bromus spp. in that area. Elevations are in the range of 1400 - 4000 ft (426 - 1220 m) on these low-gradient and mostly north-facing sites.

ML
BACCHARIS (RIPARIAN) ALLIANCE

This riparian or dry wash Alliance is dominated by any species of Baccharis occupying wet habitats, including the most common, Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia) in this area. Tree willows (Salix spp.), California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), Fremont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii) and Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) are some associated hardwoods in this Alliance. It has been mapped sparsely, below 1000 ft (304 m) in the Ranges Section.

SB
BUCKWHEAT (WHITE SAGE) ALLIANCE

The combination of California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) and White Sage (Salvia apiana), alone or together form the dominant components of this interior Alliance. Chaparral Yucca (Yucca whipplei) and Deerweed (Lotus scoparius) are often present. Chamise is not prominent in this subshrub, xeric type. The sites are in non-coastal locations, are often steep, south-facing, sparsely vegetated sites with good drainage. The degradation of Chamise or mixed chaparral sites from past fires or changes in subsurface moisture conditions appear to initiate and perpetuate many of these communities. This Alliance has been mapped extensively within the southern portions of the Interior Santa Lucia Range and Carrizo Plain Subsections of the Ranges Section. Elevations are usually between 1400 - 4800 ft (426 - 1462 m) and most slope aspects and gradients are represented.

SD
MANZANITA ALLIANCE

The dominance of the shrub layer by single or multiple species of Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.) define this Alliance. It has been mapped within the Interior Santa Lucia Range Subsection of the Ranges Section sparsely at elevations between 1200 - 4200 ft (366 - 1280 m). The Manzanita Alliance commonly occurs on ridgetops and spur ridges, often on are north-facing and moderately steep slopes. Associates include Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum), species of Ceanothus and Silktassel (Garrya spp.), Gray Pine (Pinus sabiniana), Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) and grasses in that area.

SL
COASTAL LUPINE ALLIANCE

Dune Lupine (Lupinus chamissonis), a California native, is an indicator species in coastal dunes in the Central Coast for this Alliance. It may or may not become the dominant shrub on these dunes. The stabilized coastal dune habitat supports other species there, including non-natives such as Fig Marigolds (Carpobrotus chilensis and Carpobrotus edulis), Iceplants (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum and Mesembryanthemum nodilflorum) and herbaceous annuals such as New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides). Other associated perennials, shrubs and subshrubs include Heather Goldenbush (Ericameria ericoides), California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), Eriastrum densifolium, Dune Buckwheat (Eriogonum parvifolium), California Croton (Croton californicus), Common Deerweed (Lotus scoparius), Sand Verbena (Abronia latifolia), Dune Senecio (Senecio blochmaniae), California-Aster (Lessingia filaginifolia), and perennial graminoids such as Carex spp. and Bromus spp. These vegetated dunes have been mapped up to about 200 ft (60 m) in the South Coastal Santa Lucia Range of the Coast Section.

SQ
MIXED SOFT SCRUB CHAPARRAL ALLIANCE

Ground disturbances such as fire and urban development often initiate the development of this short-lived shrub Alliance. It has been mapped in areas of ground disturbance where woody chaparral species comprise less than 50% of the shrub cover in areas transitional between the California Sagebrush and other Montane-Mixed Chaparral Alliances. These sites are typically at elevations below 2600 ft (792 m) on moderately steep to steep slopes in the Ranges Section. Indicator species in the general area include California Sagebrush (Artemisia californica), California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum), White Sage (Salvia apiana), Deerweed (Lotus scoparius), Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), Bush Monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus), Bush Poppy (Dendromecon rigida), Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon spp.) and Goldenbush (Ericameria spp.) in mixture with minor amounts of Ceanothus spp., Sumacs (Rhus spp. or Malosma laurina) and Chamise (Adenostoma fasciculatum).

SS
CALIFORNIA SAGEBRUSH ALLIANCE

California or Coastal Sagebrush (Artemisia californica) is generally found as a dominant or indicator shrub in low to moderate elevation coastal foothills and valleys in association with Black Sage (Salvia mellifera) or Purple Sage (Salvia leucophylla) in this region. The California Sagebrush Alliance is diverse in species composition, since it occurs extensively from San Francisco Bay southward. California Sagebrush commonly occurs, for example, on cismontane slopes of the Santa Lucia Range between Monterey and Pt. Conception at elevations usually below about 3400 ft (1036 m). These sites are often exposed, steep, and in the Ranges Section, south-facing. They often have rocky, shallow soils. Other species in this Alliance include Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis), Bush Monkey Flower (Mimulus aurantiacus), Heather Goldenbush and Sawtooth Goldenbush (Ericameria ericoides, Hazardia squarrosa), species of Coffeeberry (Rhamnus spp.), Lupines (Lupinus spp.), Poison Oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum), California Encelia (Encelia californica), Chaparral Yucca (Yucca whipplei) and, at lower elevations, Coast Buckwheat (Eriogonum latifolium). Some of these near-coastal sandy sites may have such rare species as Monterey, Morro or Sandmat Manzanitas (Arctostaphylos montereyensis, Arctostaphylos morroensis, Arctostaphylos pumila) within the Coast Section.

HERBACEOUS

HC
PICKLEWEED - CORDGRASS ALLIANCE

This coastal salt marsh Alliance has been mapped abundantly along tidal watercourses in the Watsonville Plain - Salinas Valley Subsection of the Coast Section. Pickleweed (Salicornia spp.) and Cordgrass (Spartina spp.) generally are dominants in this Alliance, associated with other estuarine plants such as Saltgrass (Distichlis spicata) and freshwater wetlands species such as Bulrushes (Scirpus spp.).

HG
ANNUAL GRASS - FORB ALLIANCE

Low to mid-montane areas of central California may develop extensive or restricted areas of dry grasslands. These grasses and forbs generally occur beneath Blue Oaks (Quercus douglasii) and Valley Oaks (Quercus lobata), but may occur as extensive stands without an overstory in otherwise well-vegetated shrub, hardwood or coniferous regions. Conditions that restrict the the growth and maintenance of species of the surrounding vegetation include the occurrence of pockets of fine-textured (clayey) soils, a frequent fire regime, and ground-disturbing activities such as grazing and mining. Many exotic grasses are characteristic of this type, including species of wild oats (Avena spp.), various Bromes (Bromus spp.), Foxtail Fescue (Vulpia myuros), and Kentucky Bluegrass (Poa pratensis). This Alliance also includes perennial grasses that develop on coarse, well-drained soils occuring within sunny openings of Ponderosa Pine savannas. In addition to species mentioned above, savannas may also include more native Sedges (Carex spp.) and Melic Grass (Melica spp.). These areas have been mapped at elevations below about 4600 ft (1402 m) on low-gradient slopes in both the Coast and Ranges Sections.

HJ
WET MEADOWS (GRASS - SEDGE - RUSH) ALLIANCE

Sedges and rushes occur within valleys on wet meadows and small, wet alluvial fans of lower montane areas. Although a range of hydric conditions (dry to saturated) usually occur within the same meadow, wet and mountain meadows are characterized by the permanency of the water source at their lowest topographic levels. Many Sedges and most Rushes (Carex spp. and Juncus spp.) require a continuous moisture source during the growing season. When present along the coast, this Alliance occurs in swales but is sufficiently upslope to be away from saline deposits in coastal salt marsh areas. Wet Meadows have been mapped very infrequently in both the Coast and Ranges Sections at low elevations.

NON-NATIVE VEGETATION

IA
GIANT REED - PAMPAS GRASS ALLIANCE

This non-native and invasive Alliance is dominated by invasive species of Giant Reed (Arundo donax) in wetlands or Pampas Grasses (Black Pampas Grass - Cortaderia jubata or White Pampas Grass - Cortaderia selloana) on moist, disturbed sites. It has been mapped in stringers within the Fontana Plain - Calimesa Terraces Subsection (Mountains Section) and the Los Angeles Plain Subsection (Coast Section) mainly at elevations below 800 ft (244 m). Associated hardwoods include Fremont Cottonwood (Populus fremontii), Tree Willows (Salix spp.), California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa) and the shrub Mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia).

IC
NON-NATIVE / ORNAMENTAL CONIFER ALLIANCE

Planted conifers comprise this Alliance, including species such as Canary or Norfolk Island Pines (Araucaria spp.), Deodar and Atlas Cedars (Cedrus deodar, Cedrus atlantica ), Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris), etc. Other non-native hardwoods, shrubs and grasses may be associated in minor amounts. Mapped areas of this Alliance are usually in developed areas, including urban and residential landscapes, parks, recreational areas, highways, cemetaries, etc.

IG
NON-NATIVE / ORNAMENTAL GRASS ALLIANCE

Ornamental or non-native grass species define this Alliance. Other non-native conifers, hardwoods and shrubs may be asssociated as minor elements. Mapped areas of this Alliance are usually in developed areas, including urban and residential landscapes, parks, recreational areas, highways, cemetaries, etc.

IH
NON-NATIVE / ORNAMENTAL HARDWOOD ALLIANCE

Ornamental or non-native hardwood species dominate this Alliance. Other non-native conifers, shrubs and grasses may be present in this Alliance. Mapped areas of this Alliance are usually in developed areas, including urban and residential landscapes, parks, recreational areas, highways, cemetaries, etc.

IM
NON-NATIVE / ORNAMENTAL CONIFER / HARDWOOD ALLIANCE

A mixture of ornamental or non-native conifer and hardwood species comprise the dominant species of this Alliance. Small amounts of non-native pure stands of hardwood, conifer, shrubs and grasses may be also associated with this Alliance. Mapped areas of this Alliance are usually in developed areas, including urban and residential landscapes, parks, recreational areas, highways, cemetaries, etc.

IS
NON-NATIVE / ORNAMENTAL SHRUB ALLIANCE

Ornamental or non-native shrub species dominate this Alliance. Other non-native conifers, hardwoods and grasses may be present in this Alliance. Mapped areas of this Alliance are usually in developed areas, including urban and residential landscapes, parks, recreational areas, highways, cemetaries, etc.

LAND USE AND NON-VEGETATED CLASSES

AG
AGRICULTURE

Agricultural land is used primarily for the production of food and fiber. High-altitude imagery indicates agricultural activity by distinctive geometric field and road patterns on the landscape and traces produced by mechanized equipment. Agricultural land uses include forest landscapes such as orchards as well as non-forested land uses such as vineyards and field crops. Land used exclusively for livestock pasture may, however, be mapped as Annual Grassland in those cases in which land uses are not recognizable.

BA
BARREN

Landscapes generally devoid of vegetation as seen from a high-altitude image source such as aerial photography, are labeled as Barren. This category includes mappable landscape units in which surface lithology is dominant, such as exposed bedrock, cliffs, interior sandy or gypsum areas, and the like. It does not include areas considered as modified or developed, as in urban areas but quarries and open pit mine sites are included in the Barren category.

DU
DUNES

The occurrence of coastal dunes in the Central Coast area is identified by those sandy accumulating areas in which coastal headlands are usually absent, such as at beach areas of Halfmoon Bay. Dunes have been mapped as a barren type of landscape, including sandy beach areas extending from San Diego to Santa Barbara Counties.

UB
URBAN OR DEVELOPED

This category applies to landscapes that are dominated by urban structures, residential units, or other developed land use elements such as highways, city parks, cemetaries and the like. In those cases in which the managed landscapes may have a considerable vegetation component, other land use categories may be more appopriate, such as Ornamental Conifer and Hardwood mixtures within city parks.

WA
WATER

Water is labeled in CalVeg mapping in those cases in which permanent sources of surface water are identified within a landscape unit of sufficient size to be mapped. The category includes lakes, streams and canals of various size, bays and estuaries and similar water bodies. These areas are considered to have a minimum of vegetation components, except along the edges, which may be mapped as types such as Wet Meadows, Tule-Cattail freshwater marshes, or Pickleweed-Cordgrass saline or mixed marshes. Islands within water bodies of sufficient size will be mapped according to their terrestrial dominant vegetation types.

NO VEGETATION DATA

XX
UNMAPPED

These are unsegmented areas within a section that have not yet been mapped to the CalVeg mapping standard. This map condition generally exists for expansive agricultural and urban areas such as the Sacramento valley, or for extensive desert habitats in the southeastern portion of California.

USDA Forest Service - Remote Sensing Lab, Ecosystem Planning
Last Modified: Monday, 21 July 2003 at 19:38:55 EDT