The structure of some floral elements and the nectar production rate of Polemonium caeruleum L.

Abstract

The present study, carried out in the period 2008 - 2009, covered some morphological and anatomical features of the flowers of <i>Polemonium caeruleum</i> L. and their nectar production rate in the climatic conditions of the Lublin region. Observations were made with stereoscopic, light and scanning electron microscopy. Nectar production in the flowers was determined using the pipette method. The flowers of <i>Polemonium caeruleum</i> develop a calyx covered by an epidermis with numerous non-glandular and glandular trichomes. The secretory trichomes are composed of a several-celled stalk and a four-celled head. At the boundary of the corolla tube and the lobes, there is white colouration with violet nectar guides. The epidermis in this region produces several-celled living trichomes that close the entry into the corolla tube, thereby protecting the nectar accumulated in it. These hairs are at the same time glistening colour attractants for insects. The tripartite stigma of the pistil is covered, from the adaxial side, by unicellular papillae with striated cuticular ornamentation, growing at high density. Around the ovary there is located a nectariferous disc, in the form of a free projection, which secrets nectar with sugar concentration of 29 - 52% and sugar weight ranging 1.1 - 1.8 mg/flower.