Cambial Activity and Phenology in Three Understory Species along an Altitude Gradient in Mexico

The aims of this study were to evaluate the cambial activity and phenology three species with different life forms (Alchemilla procumbens, Acaena elongata Ribes ciliatum) along an altitudinal gradient establish which environmental variables (light, soil humidity temperature) had greatest influence on phenological stages. Over two years, data phenology, growth cambium gathered every four weeks in six sites per Sierra Nevada, Mexico. results showed that is only terminates leaves senescence influenced by minimum temperature. light environment vegetative stages Alchemilla (cryptophyte), while (hemicryptophyte), mean temperature explained findings related leaf area during dry season gradient. In species, reproductive phase dominated for a longer period at higher elevations, especially Alchemilla. Only Ribes, phanerophyte, similar other trees shrubs. Although reactivates season, no xylogenesis occurs. varied time vascular was active, dependent altitude. Specifically, variation more rhythmic switched off It likely that, depending form, may be or less susceptible one climate factors.