Pumice Grape-fern

Photo Credit: Oregon Department of Agriculture

Overview

  • Species Common Name Pumice Grape-fern
  • Species Scientific Name Botrychium pumicola
  • State Listing Status Threatened

Ecoregions

Special needs

Pumice grape-fern is an alpine and montane species found on loose volcanic (pumice) soils. It is typically associated with alpine scree, lodgepole pine, or antelope bitterbrush frost-pockets. This species often occurs on open, flat, high-elevation ridgetops and gently-rolling slopes. Pumice grape-fern emerges in years when conditions are sufficiently moist.

Limiting factors

Small size makes this species vulnerable to trampling. Pumice grape-fern is adversely affected by fire suppression (closing canopies) and timber harvest that compacts soil. Facilities, roads, or trails can eliminate suitable habitat.

Conservation actions

Avoid disturbing ground at known sites of occurrence, unless activities are specifically designed to maintain or enhance pumice grape-fern.

Key reference or plan

Oregon Department of Agriculture Plant Conservation