FIRE ECOLOGY
SPECIES: Yucca brevifolia | Joshua Tree 



FIRE ECOLOGY OR ADAPTATIONS : 
Joshua tree exhibits numerous specialized adaptations to fire.  Fire may
be extremely important in both producing and maintaining large pure
stands [42].  Fires may be frequent in some Joshua tree woodlands.  In
some areas, these tall, arborescent plants are frequently struck by
lightning [R. Hunter, pers. comm. 1989].

Trees tend to become more fire resistant with age.  The thick mat of
dried leaves along the trunk decreases with age, and the flaky
alligator-like bark of older trunks serves as a firebreak between
surface fuels and the flammable shag on upper limbs [42].  Torching of
the crowns is less likely in older stands.  Here, terminal buds are
protected by the height of older trees which may grow to 30 feet (9.2 m)
or more, and by protective sheaths of thick, green leaves which surround
the buds [42].

Joshua tree is generally capable of vigorous root and stump sprouting
after fire [9,42].  Seed can remain viable in the soil for a number of
years [43], and reestablishment through on-site or off-site seed is
possible, particularly on more mesic sites or in favorable years.


POSTFIRE REGENERATION STRATEGY : 
   survivor species; on-site surviving root crown or caudex
   survivor species; on-site surviving rhizomes
   off-site colonizer; seed carried by wind; postfire years 1 and 2
   off-site colonizer; seed carried by animals or water; postfire yr 1&2

Related categories for Species: Yucca brevifolia | Joshua Tree