Lecture at Denver Camp - Floristic character of alpine plants 1. Dwarfs & mats & woody plants. Really an extension of the tundra to the south (treeless) 2. Severe conditions - 3. The cooler the area the less difference moisture makes -- xerophytes, mesophytes, & hydrophytes are less distinguishable. 4. Limiting factors. a. vary in different areas - Growth forms of alpine plants: 1. Perennial 2. Root system exaggerated 3. Pin cushion growth form) 4. Short growing season. Climax in higher elevations in Pkys probably in Engelmann spruce, shade tolerant & Balsam fir second in shade tolerance Moisture 1. Rel. humidity high at inter- 2. Soil moisture high.