Nerding out on native plants may not seem like a formula for success as a social media influencer. But meet Kyle Lybarger.

Born and raised in Alabama, often wearing camo, Mr. Lybarger has found an unexpected degree of internet fame by introducing his followers to the overlooked world of Southeastern flora.

Along the way, he has become a guardian — sometimes official, sometimes not — of a growing patchwork of rare and endangered plant populations across several counties in northern Alabama and beyond.

50 States, 50 Fixes is a series about local solutions to environmental problems. More to come this year.

“A lot of what we’re doing is saving these remnants so they still exist if people want to bring them back in the future,” said Mr. Lybarger, who is 32.