Seed Predation, Seedling Emergence, and Rhizome Characteristics of American Licorice

Abstract

American licorice (Glycyrrhiza lepidota Pursh) is a widespread native legume that may have potential forage or soil conservation uses. Seed predation, seedling emergence, and rhizome production were studied in 41 populations of G. lepidota from North and South Dakota. Seed predation by the beetle Acanthoscelides fraterculus (Horn) reduced viable seed production by 7 to 71%. Seedling emergence in the greenhouse and stand establishment in the field varied considerably among populations. Overall mean field emergence was 41%. Five South Dakota populations exhibited lethal chlorophyll deficient seedlings. Rhizome numbers of year-old spaced-plants ranged from 3 to 32, with a mean of 13.3. Mean number of nodes/rhizome was 7.5. This study indicated that stands of G. lepidota could be established from seed and individual plants could spread rapidly by rhizomes. However, heavy seed predation by bruchid beetles and lack of inflorescence production in cultivated nurseries could seriously limit viable seed production.