Reproduction of Lindera melissafolia in Arkansas

Field reproduction was investigated in several populations of the endangered dioecious species Lindera melissifolia. Fruit set was light and erratic, and even where fruiting was heavy no effective seed bank was found. Field transplantation of greenhouse-grown seedlings was successful for one growing season. Rhizome sprouting was widespread, and produced rapid recovery from fire. Without enhancement of natural reproduction, the species will probably decline