Abstract
Abstract Successional patterns in gorse (Ulex europaeus) communities were determined from an analysis of 125 plots in the Dunedin Ecological District. Stem diameter and height growth of gorse averaged 5 mm yr-1 and 200 mm yr-1 respectively. Plants attained a maximum age of 29 years, a maximum height of 7.0 m, and a maximum diameter of 217 mm at 100 mm above the ground. Gorse matured at about 15 years after establishment with a mean stem density of 60 000 ha-1, mean basal area value of 51 m2 ha-1, and a mean litter depth of 55 mm. Other naturalised woody species, particularly broom (Cytisus scoparius), declined in importance in older gorse stands. The establishment of native woody species was favoured by lower density, taller gorse, where litter depth was shallow, and areas of bryophyte or bare soil were available. In these stands native species reached numerical and basal area equivalence with gorse after 10–15 years on the site. However, at 60% of the sites younger than 25 years, native woody species wer...
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
