Story: Ecoregions

Scree slope

Scree slope

Scree slopes are a feature of South Island mountains. These vast expanses of broken rock gradually move downwards, making it difficult for vegetation to establish. Most scree plants are herbs that emerge in spring, and are green over summer. They die back to a taproot or rhizome in winter, when scree movement is most likely, with the freeze–thaw cycle sending down many rocks.

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Department of Conservation
Reference: 10050952
Photograph by Peter Simpson

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How to cite this page:

Matt McGlone, 'Ecoregions - The Southern Alps and other axial ranges', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/12576/scree-slope (accessed 19 April 2024)

Story by Matt McGlone, published 24 Sep 2007