The growth patterns, productivity, and phytosociology of soaptree yucca (<i>Yucca elata</i> Engelm)

TitleThe growth patterns, productivity, and phytosociology of soaptree yucca (Yucca elata Engelm)
Publication TypeThesis
Year of Publication1975
AuthorsSmith SD
Number of Pages87
Date Published1975
UniversityNew Mexico State University
CityLas Cruces, New Mexico
Thesis TypeM.S. Thesispp
Call Number00308
Keywordsdissertation, dissertations, plant,soaptree yucca,Yucca, productivity,Yucca, theses, thesis, Yucca, productivity, Yucca,growth patterns, Yucca,phytosociology
AbstractBiomass allocated to reproductive structures in Yucca elata was compared to net leaf growth over a five year period (1971-1975) on two sites in southern New Mexico.... The phytosociological characteristics of Yucca elata were examined on the New Mexico State University Jornada Experimental Ranch. Yucca elata appears to reach its best development in the desert grassland association, where it occurs in large, evenly spaced clumps. It is thought to occur only in the more mesic areas of the desert scrub formation, and is possibly a "relic" of past grassland vegetation in these areas. Yucca elata is most closely associated with Prosopis glandulosa and Xanthocephalum sarothrae throughout its range on the Jornada.