Syngonanthus chrysanthus occurs on coastal plains in southern and southeastern Brazil. The dune slacks are heterogeneous in time and space and have variable water availability, sometimes flooded, sometimes dry, thus restricting species recruitment. This study examined phenological aspects, life cycle, sexual and asexual reproduction as part of the life history strategy of the species. Syngonanthus chrysanthus is a perennial plant, potentially polycarpic, with high capacity of vegetative reproduction of the phalanx type, which allows it to establish in micro-habitats already colonized. Syngonanthus chrysanthus also evidenced establishment by seedlings and high seed production. The seeds are dispersed over the entire year and may increase the opportunity of the species to grow in suitable habitats in the dune slacks.
habitat heterogeneity; phalanx type rhizomes; life cycle; reproductive structures; coastal plains
