Root Grafting in Quercus Turbinella Greene

Abstract

Apparent widespread self—grafting and intra—specific grafting roots of Quercus turbinella have been noted in north—central Arizona. Grafting occurred on roots varying in size from 0.1 inch to 1.5 inches in diameter and varying in depth below the soil surface from a few inches to over 25 ft. Cross sections of the grafts indicated sufficient fusion to allow translocation across the unions. Implications of the phenomenon are discussed.