The Endangered Tennessee Purple Coneflower Echinacea tennesseensis (Asteraceae): Its Ecology and Conservation

Abstract

The federally endangered Tennessee purple coneflower (Echinacea tennesseensis (Beadle) Small [Asteraceae]) is endemic to cedar glades of middle Tennessee, and limited to 5 population sites in an approximately 170 km² (66 mi²) area. Rarity is thought to be due to prehistoric factors and to ecological characteristics that limit the ability of the plant to colonize nearby glades. Protection of natural populations combined with the establishment of new populations and seed storage will greatly reduce the possibility of extinction. Several populations are now incorporated into natural areas. Moreover, since the plant is easily propagated, new populations have been established in middle Tennessee. Progress toward full recovery of the species has been successful.