Micromorphology of nectaries of Rhododendron catawbiense Michx. at different flower development stages

Elżbieta Weryszko-Chmielewska,Magdalena Michońska,Mirosława Chwil

doi:10.5586/aa.2007.025

Abstract

The analysis of the structure of fl oral nectaries of <i>Rhododendron catawbiense</i> Michx. was performed using stereoscopic, light and scanning electron microscopy. Nectaries were sampled at different development stages: closed bud, budburst and full bloom. The nectary gland exhibits clear ribbings corresponding to fi ve small ribs of the ovary. In the top part of the gland, unicellular and multicellular non-glandular trichomes occur in great density. The upper surface of the nectary differs from its lateral surface by a stronger degree of cuticle development. Stomata are evenly distributed on the upper surface and in the higher regions of the lateral wall. The cuticle forms clear striae on the surface of stomatal cells. Stomata at different development stages were observed, as well as the beginning of nectar secretion which takes places already in the closed bud.

Highlights

Rhododendron catawbiense Michx. comes from the mountains of North America (Seneta and Dolatowski, 2007)
The location of the nectary surrounding with a wide layer the base of the ovary superior the flower of Rhododendron catawbiense can be already noticed at a small magnification (Fig. 1a)
It seems that the nectary of Rh. catawbiense can be classified as type A which is marked by the formation of large, rounded bulges at the Micromorphology of nectaries of Rhododendron Catawbiense michx

Summary

Introduction

Rhododendron catawbiense Michx. comes from the mountains of North America (Seneta and Dolatowski , 2007). It was brought to Europe in the 19th century. This species is classified as ornamental, medicinal and melliferous plants (Kondratowicz and Czekalski , 1984; Bauer , 1986). It is characterised by good acclimatization and high frost resistance (Czekalski , 1980; Seneta and Dolatowski , 2007). It is a parent used to obtain ornamental hybrids and rhododendron varieties (Czekalski , 1980; Muras , 1994; Seneta and Dolatowski , 2007). Flowers of various Rhododendron species offer pollen and nectar to pollinators (Maurizio and Grafl , 1969; Bauer , 1986; Weryszko - Chmielewska and Chwil , 2005)

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion