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found today in the Pacific or Rocky
Mountain regions are common at Florissant,
such as Mahonia , the Oregon grape
(Berberidaceae), Cercocarpus , the moun-
tain mahogany (Rosaceae, 228 ), and other,
often prickly, members of the Rosaceae such
as Crataegus (hawthorn), Rubus (rasp-
berry), Prunus (cherry, plum), Amelanchier
(serviceberry), and Rosa (rose). Broad-
leaved trees are common, with oaks
( Quercus ) and beeches (both Fagaceae),
birches (the extinct Astercarpinus fruit and
Paracarpinus leaf, Betulaceae), and walnuts
( Juglandaceae, e.g. Carya , the hickory, and
Juglans , walnut). One of the commonest
plants at Florissant is the extinct beech
Fagopsis ( 229 ). Enough organs have been
found in connection to link confidently
foliage, pollen, flowers and fruits, but not yet
wood, although Chadronoxylon might be a
contender. Liking moist habitats, it is
unsurprising that poplars ( Populus , 230 ) are
common but, strangely, Salix (willow, sallow)
is rather rare.
229
230
229 Twig of the extinct genus Fagopsis
Fagaceae, one of the commonest trees at
Florissant NHM. Length 123 mm 4.8 in.
230 Leaves of Populus crassaSalicacaeae,
one of the commonest trees at Florissant
NHM. Leaves approximately 80100 mm
3.13.9 in long.
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