The Floral Morphology and Anatomy of Kenanga (Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson)

Abstract

Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson is one of the essential oils producing plants that have many benefits for humans. However, there is little information about the floral morphology and anatomy of C. odorata. The aim of this study is examining the floral morphology and anatomy of C. odorata. The flower morphology (color, shape, and size of the flower) were observed at fresh mature flowers. While, the flower anatomy (pistil, stamen, and ovary) were observed at flower histological samples. The flower was fixed, dehydrated, alcoholized, embedding in paraffin, and stained with safranin-fast green. The results of this study showed that flowers of C. odorata are complete flowers that had 3 green sepals (0.5 – 0.9 cm), 6 – 12 yellowish-green petals (2.5 – 7.2 cm), 8 – 15 dark green pistils (5 – 8 mm), and numerous stamens. The shape of pistils is oval and contains one ovary which has 8 – 12 ovules. The shape of the stamens is elongated oval and contains pollens. The information about the floral morphology and anatomy of C. odorata might enhance the understanding of future studies regarding natural reproduction and cultivation programs.