Data: Phenotypic trait differences between Iris pseudacorus in native and introduced ranges support greater capacity of invasive populations to withstand sea level rise

Tidal wetlands are greatly impacted by climate change, and by the invasion of alien plant species that are being exposed to salinity changes and longer inundation periods resulting from sea level rise. To explore the capacity for the invasion of Iris pseudacorus (Yellow flag iris) to persist with sea level rise, we initiated an intercontinental study along estuarine gradients in the invaded North American range and the native European range. Data generated to support this study includes field- and laboratory-derived measurements including a suite of functional plant traits of I. pseudacorus and environmental variables including soil and tidewater inundation data at five native and five introduced populations study sites. These data were used to compare morphological, biochemical, and reproductive plant traits within populations in both ranges to determine if specific functional traits can predict invasion success and if environmental factors explain observed phenotypic differences.All data are generated from field sample acquisition and measurements, and laboratory analyses of these data. Plant traits were measured in the field, and plant tissue samples were analyzed for biochemical composition in the laboratory. Soil samples were collected and analyzed in the laboratory. Organic matter was analyzed by percent loss on ignition. Soil water salinity was analyzed by standard saturation paste extraction methology. Tidewater level data were acquired from continuous tide monitoring stations in the two study estuaries, or from onsite data acquisition with Solinst pressure transducers