Propagation protocol for blackbrush

Abstract

Blackbrush (Coleogyne ramosissima Torr. [Rosaceae]) is a major community type throughout the southern Great Basin, Colorado Plateau, and into the deserts of the southwestern US. This species does not readily regenerate following large fire events. At Joshua Tree National Park, we grow blackbrush from seeds for our restoration projects because it binds soil against erosion and provides shelter for understory vegetation, especially native annuals. Blackbrush is a dominant component of the vegetation in the northwestern portion of the park and is important to wildlife. Seeds are subjected to a brief stratification and germinants are planted individually into containers at the cotyledon stage. Seedlings are ready for outplanting in 9 to 12 mo.