Investigating the Effects of Climate Change on the Phenology of Achillea millefolium, Aquilegia coerulea, and Penstemon cyanocaulis

Authors

Hannah O’Toole, University of Denver
Kailey Hicks, University of Denver
Lisa Long, University of Denver
Jackson Garske, University of Denver
Anna Sher, University of Denver - Advisor

Abstract

As the effects of climate change are starting to unearth themselves, the impacts can be observed by tracking the patterns of cyclical natural phenomena also known as phenology, and monitoring how they have changed over time. These cycles are at the crux of making ecosystems viable for their local biodiversity, and understanding the ongoing change allows for further understanding of the ecosystem’s change over time. In this study, we look at the ordinal flowering dates of the Achillea millefolium, Aquilegia coerulea, and Penstemon cyanocaulis over the past century. Our data give insight into how warmer temperatures occurring earlier in the year are changing the cycle of flowering plants in the western United States. This framework encourages more investigation into the changes in plant phenology throughout different regions due to climate change.

Publication Statement

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Recommended Citation

O’Toole, Hannah; Hicks, Kailey; Long, Lisa; Garske, Jackson; and Sher, Anna (2022) "Investigating the Effects of Climate Change on the Phenology of Achillea millefolium, Aquilegia coerulea, and Penstemon cyanocaulis," DU Undergraduate Research Journal Archive: Vol. 3: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.du.edu/duurj/vol3/iss1/6