Ecology and Conservation Biology of the Endangered Plant Species Solidago shortii (Asteraceae)

Abstract

We review briefly our 14 y of research results collected on the ecology and conservation biology of the narrowly-endemic, federally-endangered plant species, Short’s goldenrod (Solidago shortii T. & G. [Asteraceae]). Of the many aspects of the ecology of S. shortii we investigated, low competitive ability appears to be the one that contributes most to its narrow endemism. In the long-term, S. shortii can survive only in early successional habitats, and this ecological characteristic, in large part, defines its management needs. We discuss methods for propagation of this rare taxon, which can be propagated easily from seeds.