Habitat of Potentilla ambigens by Rich Scully
Most Colorado occurrences are on grassy or colluvial slopes, but it may also occur in montane woods. Some sites where Potentilla ambigens is found have been heavily altered by human activities, such as roadsides. Potentilla ambigens is often reported from ecotonal sites at the edges of relatively discrete vegetation types. It is commonly near, but not in, forests dominated by Pinus ponderosa (ponderosa pine). These sites are typically open or in partial shade. However, most reports are from sites where plants are in full sun such as meadows or grasslands. Potentilla ambigens has been reported mainly from flat sites, but it may also grow on gentle hillsides and slopes with up to 30 percent gradient. If on a slope, the site usually has a source of water upslope that increases soil moisture. Potentilla ambigens is not endemic to a particular geologic stratum. Potentilla ambigens is typically found in soils that are either alluvial or colluvial. All reports of soil texture where P. ambigens is found note the presence of coarse-textured, often gravelly soils. Potentilla ambigens is associated with several coniferous forest types. These include ponderosa pine woodlands, ponderosa pine savannas, and mixed coniferous forests (Anderson 2006, Colorado Natural Heritage Program 2012).
Elevation Range:
6,608 - 9,062
feet (2,014 - 2,762 meters)