Macro-element levels in red tussock (Chionochloa rubra Zotov) shoots, and properties of associated volcanic soils, North Island, New Zealand

Abstract

Macro-element concentrations of Chionochloa rubra on volcanic soils are similar to previously reported concentrations in C. rubra from high country yellow-brown earths in the South Island. Exceptions are Ca and N which are lower, and Mg which is very low and outside the range of South Island populations.

Aluminium-bound P is the dominant fraction in young, weakly weathered volcanic soils beneath C. rubra in the North Island. Bray No. 1 P, Olsen P, and green blade P concentrations decrease with altitude on Mt. Ruapehu, and are closely positively correlated within North Island-wide collections.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

P. A. Williams

Miss E. L. Hellaby Indigenous Grasslands Research Fellow.