Prostanthera junonis Conn (LAMIACEAE); is recovery possible?

Abstract

Prostanthera junonis is an endangered plant from the Somersby plateau west of Gosford, New South Wales. Most populations occur in sites modified by clearing or adjacent to developments. This paper examines the current status and recovery efforts for this species in the light of research to date. Studies undertaken indicate that the species has the reproductive ecology expected of a colonising species. Autogamy, a low pollen/ovule ratio, higher seed set in open sites compared with densely vegetated sites, clonal growth, a long flowering period and flowering by young plants were recorded for the species. It is predicted that these reproductive traits should help the population recover from clearing. Comments on recovery planning are made.