Pueraria lobata Willd. (Ohwi) kudxa: Limitations to Sexual Reproduction

Abstract

The success of kudzu, Pueraria lobata Willd. (Ohwi), as a weedy invader in the southeastern United States is a result of its rapid growth rate, high leaf area index and ability to reproduce vegetatively. Populations at three sites near College Park, Maryland varied in their growth and reproduction, leaf area index, specific leaf weight, vine elongation rates, raceme density and seed production and dispersal. Soil characteristics, air temperature, humidity and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) were measured at each site. The site which had the greatest vegetative productivity received significantly higher levels of PAR. Virtually no flowers or seeds were produced at the other two sites. At the site which produced a large number of flowers, successful sexual reproduction was limited by insufficient pollinator service during some periods of the season and low germination and seedling survivorship. Measurements of specific leaf weight, leaf area index, biomass, raceme production and seed set suggest that kudzu is a sun adapted plant. Even though it is capable of establishing itself in habitats of low or moderate irradiance, a greater ability for sexual reproduction was apparent in sun populations versus no sexual reproduction was apparent in sun populations versus no sexual reproductive success in populations occurring in shaded habitats. While its primary mode of reproduction is vegetative, successful sexual reproduction may occur despite several limiting factors.