Figure 1. Predicted tree growth patterns along a temperature limitation gradient. Deciduous angiosperms and evergreen conifers are classically distributed along temperate to alpine forest transitions (a). The climate sensitivity of tree growth increases towards upper elevations (b) and mean tree growth rates decline (c). Panels d, e, f depict community composition in core and edge habitats of Fagus and Picea. Panels g, h, i depict associated growth time series of individuals marked with corresponding Roman numerals. At low elevations (d, g), high variation in growth rates and low correlation among growth series results from competition. At high altitudes (f, i), we predict lower variation in growth and high synchronization due to climate stress. At mid elevation sites where life-histories overlap, we expect increased growth synchrony of Fagus, including less severe competitive interactions under interspecific competition. For Picea, we predict an increase in maximum growth rates, but comparatively greater competitive suppression of understory individuals under interspecific competition compared to Fagus.