Encelia farinosa, Encelia frutescens, and Hymenoclea salsola in the Mohave Desert

Since 1973, Jim Ehleringer and colleagues have studied the ecology, ecophysiology, and population dynamics of Encelia farinosa, Encelia frutescens, and Hymenoclea salsola. These are dominant drought deciduous shrubs. Our research also describes the distributions, ecology, and ecophysiology of these species especially with respect to adaptations, competitive interactions, phenology, life history, and slope-wash habitat preferences.

Since 1980, we have monitored population characteristics and dynamics of Encelia farinosa, Encelia frutescens, and Hymenoclea salsola as well as of Larrea divaricata at multiple sites between Death Valley and Superior. With long-term data, we can answer questions about relationships among fitness, physiology, life history, life expectancy, and climate ENSO/PDO teleconnections.

An Encelia farinosa dominated slope in the Mohave Desert.

Encelia farinosa

Encelia frutescens and Hymenoclea salsola sampling in a Mohave Desert wash.