Fruit formation of the distylous species <i>Jasminum fruticans</i> L. (Oleaceae)

Abstract

The article presents the results of a comparative analysis of the fruit formation of long-styled and short-styled plants Jasminum fruticans L. (Oleaceae). The long-styled flowers have larger ovaries and ovules than short-styled ones. Visual signs of degeneration and reduction of the structures of the ovules were not detected. At the same time, the morphs of J. fruticans differ in fruit formation. The proportion of dimeric fruits with two seeds is greater in long-styled plants. Three periods of abortion of fruits/seeds were identified: (1) 1-7 days after flowering correspond to the stage of pollination and fertilization; (2) 8-14 days are the proembryonic stage of embryogenesis; (3) 15-35 days are the stage of globular embryo. The periods of fruits abortion are the same for long- and short-styled plants. Statically significant difference between morph was revealed in the first period of abortion. Differences in morphs of fruits formation indicate less effective pollination and fertilization in short-styled plans. The fruits of J. fruticans mature three months after flowering.