The plants in the T emperate section have small flowers, deciduous fall color, large papery foliage, both deep and shallow roots and a fast growth habit. Sunlight needs vary from sun to shade, but they prefer cool fall and winter temperatures and wet conditions. They easily tolerate freezing and prefer moist, loamy soils.
Many species tolerate moisture stress best during the winter cool season after they are established.
They need ample water in the spring. A 180-220 day growing season is preferred, with a cool winter cycle for dormancy and rest. Greatest plant growth occurs in the late spring to summer. Temperate plants prefer the cooler and moister locations of valleys, foothills and Northern California. They perform well in warm southern locations in deep soils with ample moisture.