Factors Affecting Seed Production in Natural Populations of Lysimachia Asperulifolia Poir. (Primulaceae), A Rare, Self-Incompatible Plant Species

Abstract

Lysimachia asperulifolia, commonly known as Rough Leaved Loosestrife, is a federally endangered, rhizomatous herb restricted to ecotones between long-leaf pine savannas and pocosins in North and South Carolina. Botanists and land use managers across the species' range have observed low rates of seed production in natural populations. Low seed production may prevent establishment of new populations and production of new genotypes, thus limiting the ability of the species to survive diseases and changing environmental conditions. I conducted a study to determine causal mechanisms of the limited seed production at five natural populations in North Carolina. Using field observations and experiments, I examined pollen fertility, pollen compatibility, pollinator limitation, and population structure of L. asperulifolia. In this paper, I present background information on natural causes of low seed production, previously published information about L. asperulifolia species biology, and results of my own experiments.