The plant communities are not uniform and they intergrade. Generally no sharp line divides them. But these being the San Gabriels, anything is possible. Frequently, you can look cross canyon from under deep, cool shade of canyon oaks and see sun-baked chaparral only a few yards away. It generally gives size, shape, spacing, stem form and leaf structure.
Dominant species lists the larger plants that are most likely to be seen.
Images of individual plants may be found by using the excellent CalFlora database. Outlined sections called Special Features highlight unique aspects of particular communities which are often overlooked. Links given For More Information are sometimes technical, sometimes about a certain species, and sometimes good pictures. Jane Strong Updated January 21, 2000.