EPIC - (Early Plant information Combined)

This dataset compiles seedling functional trait data extracted from 183 peer-reviewed studies conducted across the continental United States. It includes information on native herbaceous species, focusing on traits measured during the seedling stage (typically <90 days old). Each record contains metadata on study location, ecoregion, experimental setting (e.g., field, greenhouse), manipulated abiotic and biotic factors, species identity, and detailed trait measurements categorized as morphological, physiological, phenological, or performance/growth traits. Trait entries are standardized where possible and include both commonly studied traits (e.g., above-ground biomass) and underreported traits relevant to seedling ecology and regeneration. This dataset supports efforts to synthesize patterns in seedling trait expression, assess knowledge gaps, and inform trait-based predictions of seedling performance under environmental change.