Branch architecture of sagebrush and bitterbrush: use of a branch complex to describe and compare patterns of growth

Abstract

The concept of the modularity of plant growth form was incorporated with the fates of buds and used as a framework to describe the typical branch-level developmental morphology of sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana (Rydb.) Beetle) and bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata (Pursh) D.C.). Typical branches included one 2-year-old long shoot and all 1-year-old long shoots originating from that twig. Growth patterns were examined by position along each long shoot within the experimental branches. Shoot fates were recorded for each node and biomass production was estimated. Both species had specific locations where vegetative long shoot production was higher than any other location within the experimental branches. Sagebrush had an overall linear (excurrent) growth form, with the leader long shoot much larger than lateral long shoots. Sagebrush produced many lateral long shoots and few short shoots. In contrast, bitterbrush had a branched (decurrent) growth form, with few long shoots and many short shoots. The leader rarely grew and was no larger than laterals. Knowledge of the location, frequency, and size of vegetative long shoot production within a branch complex provides an understanding of the repeated structure of plants. The branch-level approach provides the information necessary before the effects of environmental factors on growth patterns can be determined. Key words: Artemisia tridentata ssp. vaseyana (Rybd.) Beetle, branch architecture, bud fates, developmental morphology, Purshia tridentata (Pursh) D.C., shrub.