The ecology and morphology of Andropogon scoparius and A. gerardii in northern and Upper Michigan: a comparison.

Abstract

In conclusion, in northern Michigan Andropogon scoparius and A. gerardii both grow in sandy soils receiving full to nearly full sunlight exposure. A. scoparius, however, occupies a broader range of habitats (shoreline/dunes and inland sand plains). While A. gerardii is found only on the inland sand plains in association with A. scoparius. The inland and shoreline populations of A. scoarius displayed different patterns of pubescence and rooting. Future studies will be necessary in order to determine contributing factors limiting A. gerardii distribution in northern Michigan, as well as the nature of the morphological variations found in the A. scoparius populations.