Leaf growth pattern in co-existing evergreen and deciduous species of Kumaon Himalaya

Leaf growth patterns were studied in three pairs of evergreen and deciduous species, occuiring at an elevation of 2025-2150 m in the Kumaon Himalaya. Leaf initiation occurred earlier in evergreens with an exception of Litsea umbrosa . Peak leaf pool size was attained earlier in deciduous species (June to early July), while later (October) in evergreen species. Rate of leaf expansion was higher in deciduous species. Specific leaf mass in the initial period was higher in evergreen species than in deciduous species. Leaf area was higher in deciduous species as compared to evergreen species, while root length/leaf area unit was greater in evergreen species.