Reintroduction of Baptisia aberrans in a Piedmont Diabase Glade

Abstract

The recently named species Baptisia aberrans has been classified as endangered in the state of North Carolina. As a new species, its ideal growth conditions and variations from other Baptisia species are poorly understood. To better understand the growth and preferences of B. aberrans, it was introduced to a new location in a historical Diabase Glade in the Piedmont of North Carolina. Seeds were planted in a heated greenhouse and gradually transitioned outdoors before being transplanted to the site. Once transplanted, the seedlings were monitored for growth, and various site characteristics were recorded. Herbivory, elevation, and phosphorus predicted stem growth across the entire population. When plants marked by herbivory were excluded from analysis, moisture, burned status, slope, and elevation predicted stem growth. Moisture conditions appear to be important for B. aberrans establishment. Protection from herbivory and prescribed burning are recommended as part of management for this species.