Chaparral

Chaparral is composed of hillside evergreen shrubs from 1-15 feet tall. Chaparral plants have adapted differently than most coastal-sage-scrub plants. Chaparral shrubs are deep-rooted with thick and waxy, or small, shiny leaves. Characteristic plant species include chamise, manzanita, sugarbush, scrub oak, California lilac, toyon, and sumac. Periodic fire is also necessary for the rejuvenation of many chaparral plants. 39.tif

Mature stands of chaparral form dense, closed canopies. Selective clearing opens impenetrable stands of chaparral and helps prevent devastating wildfire. Pruning, grazing, and prescribed fire (controlled burns) are tools used to section dense stands of chaparral. Areas of mixed chaparral (CSS interspersed with chaparral species) provide high quality habitat because they supply food and refuge to wildlife. Learn more about fuel reduction and fire-wise landscaping in Living on the Edge: A Guide for Living at the Urban - Wildlands Interface, available from the Riverside-Corona Resource Conservation District.