Structural traits of Quercus ilex shrubs and seasonal shoot production were monitored in the climax area (site A, Castelporziano, Rome) and at the northern distribution limit (site B, Nago, Trento) in Italy. The higher LAI at site A is in close connection whit the higher shoot biomass accumulation. The lower biomass at site B is related to the low temperatures in winter and at the beginnig of spring which reduced favourable periods for growth dynamics
