Seed germination and nursery culture protocol for American starvine (Schisandra glabra)

Abstract

American starvine (Schisandra glabra [Brickell] Rehder [Schisan-draceae]) is a rare vine native to the southeastern US. Although other species of Schisandra are cultivated, there is a poor understanding of the germination behavior of this species. We developed a seed propagation and nursery culture protocol for this species that can be used to safeguard genetic lineages in ex situ collections and produce plant material for restoration and reintroduction projects. In contrast with other species of Schisandra, this species requires 2 phases of cold stratification for seeds to successfully germinate and for seedlings to emerge.