Gryshko National Botanical Garden Research Articles

Biochemical and allelopathic features of Adonis vernalis, Allium ursinum, and Leucojum vernum in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine

The article presents the results of a study on the content and dynamics of the accumulation of biogenic elements and brassinolides in plants of Adonis vernalis, Allium ursinum, and Leucojum vernum in Kyiv, Ukraine. Data is provided on allelopathic activity, content of macro- and microelements, phenolic compounds, and laccase activity in plants and the rhizosphere soil under the conditions of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NBG). The plants from the collection of the NBG were used as objects of study in field experiments. The content of biogenic elements in plant tissues and soil was analyzed using an inductively coupled plasma spectrometer. The allelopathic analysis of soil was conducted using a direct bioassay method with Lepidium sativum seedlings as the test object. Phenolic compounds were extracted from the soil using the ion exchange (desorption) method. The content of brassinosteroids was measured spectrophotometrically at a wavelength of 450 nm. The content of laccase was measured spectrophotometrically at a wavelength of 530 nm.The results demonstrate that model plant species employ a wide range of physiological mechanisms throughout the vegetation period to enhance their resistance to abiotic factors. These mechanisms include maintaining potassium and calcium balance and utilizing hormonal compounds. Plants have been proven to have compensatory mechanisms in response to stress factors, substituting one biochemical marker of resistance with another. Both, brassinosteroids and silicon, contribute to the adaptive capacity of organisms.

Comparative analysis of soil ecosystems of protected and artificially created beech forests

Peculiarities of soil ecosystems (algae, microbiocenosis, agrochemical and agrophysical characteristics) of the Uholsko-Shirokoluzhanskyi beech relict forests of the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, as well as artificial European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) plantations located on the botanical and geographical plots "Ukrainian Carpathians" of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of NAS of Ukraine. Soil samples were collected from May to September during 2020–2021. The species composition of soil microalgae, the number of ecological and trophic groups of microorganisms, agrophysical and agrochemical characteristics of soils were analyzed. The predominance of green algae with a significant diversity of green flagellates and the complete absence of cyanobacteria are typical features of forest soils. The small number of detected species (12 in beech relict forests and 15 in artificial beech plantations) indicates shaded forest ecosystems which are typical for beech forests. Despite common features, the species composition of soil algae of both phytocenoses is quite different. The soils under the beech relict forests are characterized by a significant predominance of green algae, among which essential number of Trebouxiophyceae representatives with aerophytic ecology were found. It indicates the mountainous nature of the soil algal flora. Soils under artificial beech plantations are characterized by a richer species diversity and predominance of Chlorophyceae representatives, which is typical for lowland forests. A characteristic feature of protected and artificially created beech forests was the relative high number of micromycetes. Correlation analysis of research results showed a positive relationship between algal diversity and the abundance of two eco-trophic groups of microorganisms: actinomycetes and ammonifiers. In addition, the growth of algal diversity was positively correlated with the content of Ca and Mg, and negatively with the content of P.

Teratogenesis of generative organs of cultivars of Rosa (Rosaceae) in the collection of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine

As a result of the observation of 80 varieties of garden roses in the collection of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, during 2018–2022, 11 types of teratomorphs were identified and documented according to the proposed informal classification scheme. The most common anomalies of the generative organs were categorized as follows: double-flowered morphs (96.25%), petalization of stamens and sepals (55%), phyllody of flower elements (47.5%) and petal chorisis (46.25%). Such manifestations of teratogenesis as proliferation, fasciation and polymerization occur less frequently (10% and 12.5%, respectively). Syncarpy, heteromorphism and oligomerization were observed in a small number of varieties (from 1.25% to 3.75%). Sepal phyllody was found in 15 of the studied varieties, i.e. 39.47% of all records of phyllody of generative organs. The varieties 'Leda', 'Lydia', 'F.J. Grootendorst', 'The Sun and the Heart', 'Duftwolke', 'Souvenir de la Malmaison', 'Laguna' were found to be most susceptible to flower teratogenesis. The results of this research, apart from theoretical implication, can be of some interest for rose breeders.

Genus Corydalis s. l. (Papaveraceae) in the flora of Ukraine: wild and cultivated taxa and the success of naturalization of alien species

Taxonomic composition of native and alien plants of the genus Corydalis s. l. in the flora of Ukraine has been analyzed. Based on literature, herbarium, inventory and other information, it was established for the first time that 3 native taxa (outside natural ranges) and 16 alien taxa of the genus Corydalis were recorded among ergasiophytes in botanical gardens and dendrological parks of Ukraine. The majority of these ergasiophytes (73.7 %) have not been preserved in the collections of living plants, indicating a low level of naturalization. The leading scientific center for the plant cultivation, where 82.4 % of alien taxa of the genus Corydalis have been cultivated, is the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (Kyiv). Additionally, 4 alien taxa at different stages of naturalization were noted in the spontaneous flora of Ukraine. These include the ephemerophyte C. bracteata, colonophyte C. lutea, epecophyte C. cava subsp. marschalliana (outside the natural range) and hemiagryophyte C. caucasica. In the conditions of M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden and Syretsky Dendrological Park (Kyiv) ontogenetic structure of native coenopopulations of C. solida and introduced coenopopulations of naturalized alien taxa C. cava subsp. marschalliana and C. caucasica have been found. It was found that the coenopopulations of C. solida belong to the mature or aging types; C. cava subsp. marshalliana – to the young type; C. caucasica – young with a bias towards an invasive type. The highest density and a high seed germination in various coenotic conditions, which emphasizes the invasive nature of this species, distinguish coenopopulations of C. caucasica. Its expansion in the conditions of the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden corresponds to the existing trend of the invasive spread of alien species from the southern regions, which is intensified by Global Climate Change. Due to the invasive activity of C. caucasica, this alien taxon, according to existing recommendations, should be considered as an invasive plant at the initial stage of expansion, so it should not be recommended for introduction to other countries and should be prevented from spreading in Ukraine.

Carpological features of Iris hybrida Hort. (Rodion.) in the conditions of the M. M. Hryshko National Botanical Garden in Kyiv, Ukraine

The results of a morphological study of fruit and seed characteristics of Iris hybrida hort. are presented. The morphometric measurements of fruits and seeds are described including length and width. Such morphological features as the shape of fruits and seeds, hilum shape, the position and size of the seed embryo, endosperm features, the surface of the fruits and seeds are analyzed. Eleven tall bearded iris varieties of domestic and foreign selection were chosen from the collection fund of the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden. The varieties selected are: ‘Alians’, ‘Amethyst Flame’, ‘Earth Song’, ‘Local Color’, ‘Mescalero Chief’, ‘Scintilation’, ‘Vanity’, ‘Violet Harmony’, ‘Zlatokudraya’, ‘Ayu-Dag’, and ‘Pryvit Z Ukrayiny’. These varieties are distinguished by their decorative qualities, are widely distributed and are promising candidates for further selection work. Among the researched varieties, fruit bodies of obovate, wide-oval, elongated-elliptic and rounded shapes were distinguished. Seeds of compressedprismatic, rounded, wedge-shaped, inverted ovoid and flattened-semicircular shapes were recorded. The surface of the seeds observed was spongy-wrinkled, hard, sometimes with narrow rims along the edge of the faces. The shape of the hilum showed slight variations. The described carpological features of the I. hybrida varieties align with literature data on the general morphology of the fruits and seeds of other types of irises. The varieties of I. hybrida studied were from the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden collection fund, and when grown in the conditions of the forest-steppe, we’re able to form full viable seeds with free pollination, which indicates their high adaptability. According to the histogenetic classification, the fruits of the studied varieties belong to the Lilium type (with a lignified endocarp). The structure of the seed coat, consisting of the exo-, meso- and endotesta, differences in the size, shape of the seeds and the hilum were also noted. The morphological descriptions of the fruits and seeds of the investigated varieties provide additional data about the genus Iris L.

Assessment of drought resistance in plants of the genus Aristolochia L.

The examination of plant resistance to drought is becoming increasingly relevant due to global warming. All species of the genus Aristolochia L. possess high decorative qualities and play an important role in natural ecosystems. However, under conditions of temperature imbalance, their ornamental value may decrease due to leaf turgor loss and even leaf shedding. The purpose of the paper is to highlight the results of studies on the drought resistance assessment of Aristolochia L. plant species to identify the most promising taxa suitable for cultivation in the city of Kyiv. The study was conducted in 2022 on three species of vines: Aristolochia macrophylla Lam., A. tomentosa Sims., A. manshuriensis Kom., which grow in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden (Kyiv). The study presented results on leaf hydration parameters, water deficit, water-holding capacity of leaves, electrical conductivity, and specific leaf area conducted in the Plant Physiology and Microbiology Laboratory of the Institute of Horticulture, National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine. Field assessment of Aristolochia L. plant drought resistance was also conducted. It was established that Aristolochia macrophylla Lam. is the most drought-resistant species, exhibiting low transpiration rates and high water-holding capacity. Aristolochia tomentosa Sims. it is the least drought-resistant species, which therefore needs additional care. In field conditions, significant signs of wilting were not observed, indicating that leaves reduce turgor during the day and recover at night. It is also important to preserve the environment in which these plants grow, as its changes affect the drought tolerance and life cycle of lianas. The results of the drought resistance research on Aristolochia L. plants point to the potential of these species. They can be used for selecting plant assortments for creating various types of plantations in urban environments

The new earliest cultivar of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.)

The fruits of cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) have long been eaten and used for medicinal purposes. During the long history of their use, many cultivars have been created with a wide range of shapes, sizes, colors, biochemical composition, and fruit ripening dates, allowing the planting of the cornelian cherry in different geographical locations and a wide range of environmental conditions. The M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (Kyiv, Ukraine) has an extensive collection of C. mas cultivars, which differ in many respects, including the time of fruit ripening. Recently a new cultivar, ‘Vytivka Svitlany’, marked by a very early ripening time, has been bred. The fruits of cultivar ‘Vytivka Svitlany’ are red or dark red, oval and more or less elongated, cut off at the top and slightly concave, shiny, juicy, sweet-sour, and slightly tart, with a delicate aroma. After full ripening, the fruits crumble quickly. They are deliciously fresh and suitable for processing in the food industry. In the present paper, the morphological features and biometric characteristics of the fruits of the new cultivar in comparison with other early-ripening cultivars (red-fruited ‘Olena’ and yellow-fruited ‘Alyosha’), as well as the principal biochemical composition of the fruits and its phenological phases for the seasonal development in 2021 according to BBCH scale are represented.

Chemical components of essential oils from aerial parts of Pycnanthemum virginianum and P. californicum (Lamiaceae) plants

Aim. The research is aimed at determining the qualitative and quantitative content of essential oils in the aerial part of two species of the genus Pycnanthemum Michx. (Lamiaceae) – P. virginianum (L.) T. Durand & B.D. Jacks. ex B.L. Rob & Fernald and P. californicum Norr. exDurand. The plants were introduced in the M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (Forest-Steppe zone). These are representatives of the flora of North America, and they are little known in Ukraine. Plants have useful medicinal and nutritional properties, but the biochemical composition of their essential oils has not been sufficiently studied in the world.Materials and methods. In the experiment, the aerial herbal part of plants collected during the flowering phase was used. The quantitative content of the essential oil was determined by the hydrodistillation method, and its qualitative characteristics were found by the GC-MS analysis. The chromatographic profile was obtained on an Agilent Technologies 7890. The component composition of the essential oil was determined on a gas chromatograph with a HP 6890 mass spectrometric detector with a mass spectrometric detector 5973. We used a mass spectrometric detector 1.6 – 800 a.o.m., EI ionization, SIM & Scan mode, “Hewlett Packard”, USA. Identification of essential oil components was performed using the NIST mass spectrum library in combination with AMDIS content-time identification programs.Results and discussion. P. virginianum was found to produce 1.96 ± 0.17 % of essential oil, in which 12 compounds out of 13 were identified; P. californicum had 2.66 ± 0.13 % of essential oil, 13 compounds out of 15 were identified. The essential oil samples obtained have pulegone as the dominant component: P. virginianum – 44.65 %, P. californicum – 86.07 %. In addition to it, they also contain thymol, myrcene, 1.8-cineole, menthone, limonene and other compounds.Conclusions. For the first time, the qualitative and quantitative composition of the essential oils of plants of P. virginianum and P. californicum species introduced in Ukraine has been determined. The results obtained indicate that when introduced plants have a high biosynthesizing ability to produce essential oil. Pulegone has been found to be the dominant component; therefore, the essential oil can be classified as a pulegone-type essential oil. We believe that the raw material of P. virginianum and P. californicum are potentially suitable for use in perfumery, cosmetics, aromatherapy, personal care products, dentistry, and in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Content of macro- and microelements in the plants of Artemisia annua L., A. ludoviciana Nutt. and A. austriaca L.

The purpose of this study was to investigate mineral composition of the plants species Artemisia annua L., A. ludoviciana Nutt. and A. austriaca L. Methods. Determination of the elemental composition of plant material was carried out by the X-ray fluorescence method. Results. The content of mineral elements in plants depends on their individual ability to absorb elements from the soil and accumulate them in the roots, leaves and flowers. Plant samples of three species of wormwood were grown and studied during the flowering phase under conditions of introduction in M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NBG) during 2019–2022. The qualitative and quantitative content of different macro- and microelements in the soil and plants were investigated. It was shown that aerial parts of the investigated plants accumulate the most important elements for the plants life, such as – K, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn. Mesoelements Ca and S are present in sufficient quantities also. Elements Nb, Y, Ti, V, Cr were detected in soil, but were not determined in plants. Only A. annua plants contains Ni and Se, while A. ludoviciana and A. annua plants contain Pb. The amount of toxic elements in plants did not exceed the maximum permissible concentrations for vegetable raw materials and food products. Conclusion. Content of the main macro- and microelements was determined in the plants A. annua, A. ludoviciana and A. austriaca growing in NBG. The tendency of plants A. ludoviciana to accumulate high concentrations of iron in the roots and aerial part was observed. The obtained data will be useful for forecasting and evaluating the results of introduction of new promising species of the genus Artemisia, in breeding of new varieties of wormwood, to determine their pharmacological properties and to make a decision about the feasibility of using them in herbal tea and food products.

Comparative analysis of essential oils from three species of the genus Artemisia cultivated in Ukraine

This study aimed to determine the composition of essential oils in the aerial part of three species of the genus Artemisia L.: Artemisia argyi H. Lév. & Vaniot, Artemisia austriaca Jacq. and Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. These species of different origins were introduced at the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden (Kyiv, Ukraine). The conducted gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the main components of Artemisia argyi essential oil were alpha-terpinolene (45.984%), pinocarvone (25.651%), alpha-phellandrene (11.446%) and 1,8-cineole (5.895%), whereas 1,8-cineole (19.921%), sobrerol (15.162 %), pinocarvone (14.535%) and 1-nitrophenyl propene (7.738%) dominated in the essential oil of Artemisia austriaca. Such volatile compounds as beta-ocimene (40.307 %), hexyl butyrate (18.291%), mirtenol (10.785%), mirtanal (10.174%), cis-sabinol (6.025%) and verbenene (5.779%) prevailed in the Artemisia ludoviciana essential oil. The domination of 1,8-cineole and pinocarvone revealed similarities between the essential oils of Artemisia argyi and Artemisia austriaca. Considering that many of the predominant compounds have proven therapeutic properties, it could be supposed that essential oils and the raw materials of the three studied species are potentially suitable for future use in the pharmaceutical industry and aromatherapy.

RESEARCH OF TROPHIC CONNECTIONS AND PHENOLOGY METCALFA PRUINOSA SAY (HEMIPTERA: FLATIDAE) IN THE GRYSHKO NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF UKRAINE

The article presents data on the emergence and spread of the invasive potential of the dangerous pest Metcalfa pruinosa (Say) in the conditions of the Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The insect was recorded for the first time at the botanical-geographic site "Far East" in the NBG in May 2016. Since then, M. pruinosa the has expanded its range, and new sites of insect infestation have been found in the NBG and on private grounds outside the botanical garden. The host plants were identified and the extent of their damage was assessed. The most populated plant species belonged to the genera Rosaceae, Aceraceae, Oleaceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, Amaranthaceae, Apiaceae, Araliaceae, Balsaminaceaee. The phenology of citrus flatid planthopper was investigated. It has been established that the insect has one generation per year. The development of the M. pruinosa is limited to a minimum air temperature of 17–20 °С. In the first decade of May, the appearance of larvae citrus flatid planthopper is observed. The first imagos are recorded in early or mid-July, depending on the meteorological conditions of the year. The complete disappearance of adults occurs at the end of August. In order to prevent the further introduction, spread and harmfulness of M. pruinosa in Ukraine, the following measures should be considered: (1) trade of plants for planting is necessary only from pest-free production sites, (2) periodic inspections of plants for colonization by M. pruinosa larvae should be carried out in June , (3) conduct a special inspection of wax threads, (4) apply insecticides against the young immature stages of M. pruinosa, (5) increase public awareness of this pest.

Antibacterial Activity of Ethanolic Extracts of Aglaonema commutatum Schott and its Cultivars against Enterococcus faecalis Strains

The application of plants coming from tropical and subtropical regions in the management of bacterial infections can be considered a positive occurrence in most traditional medicine practices. Consequently, plants having antimicrobial activity against various pathogens can be considered great assets. Moreover, increased problems associated with side effects and bacterial resistance to chemical drugs have prompted us to focus on the antibacterial potentials of some plants belonging to the Aglaonema genus. The purpose of the current study was to examine the antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts derived from Aglaonema commutatum Schott and its cultivars (Malay Beauty, Silver Queen, and Silver King) against two Enterococcus faecalis strains, i.e. Enterococcus faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 51299™ (resistant to vancomycin; sensitive to teicoplanin) and Enterococcus faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 29212™. These plants were cultivated under glasshouse conditions at M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden, National Academy of Science of Ukraine. The testing of the antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was carried out in vitro by the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. Results of this study revealed that the extracts derived from leaves of A. commutatum and cv. Silver Queen exhibited higher inhibitory activity against the growth of E. faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 51299™ than the extracts from cv. Melay Beauty and Silver King. Maximum in vitro inhibition was scored by cultivar Silver Queen, followed by A. commutatum, cv. Malay Beauty and Silver King. On the other hand, extracts derived from leaves of A. commutatum cv. Melay Beauty and Silver Queen exhibited higher inhibitory activity against the growth of E. faecalis (Andrewes and Horder) Schleifer and Kilpper-Balz 29212™ than the extracts derived from the cv. Silver King and A. commutatum. Maximum in vitro inhibition was scored by cv. Malay Beauty, followed by cv. Silver Queen and Silver King, and A. commutatum. Therefore, this plant can be used to treat various diseases caused by E. faecalis strains. There is a lot of potentials for this plant to treat infections caused by these bacteria. Therefore, these plants may be helpful in the management of infections caused by E. faecalis, especially in traditional medicine practices. However, further research is required to understand the mechanisms involved in antimicrobial activity.

Assessment of Antioxidant Activity of Ethanol Extracts of Vigna spp.

Plants of Vigna Savi genus are widely used in the world as food and medicinal plants. Most investigations propagated the biochemical composition and biological activity of seeds of these plants due to the high content of proteins but fewer studies about the above-ground plant part. The aim of this study focused on the investigation of the antioxidant activity of Vigna spp. The plant raw of Vigna angularis (Willd.) Ohwi & H. Ohashi, V. mungo (L.) Hepper, V. radiata (L.) Wilczek, V. unguiculata (L.) Walp. was collected from the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine experimental collection at the start of the vegetation and flowering stage. At the start of vegetation was determined 45.27–77.21 mg GAE.g-1 (gallic acid equivalent) of total polyphenol compounds (TPC), 8.67–20.48 mg CAE.g-1 (caffeic acid equivalent) of total phenolic acids (TPAC), 31.84–47.97 mg QE.g-1 (quercetin equivalent) of total flavonoids content (TFC), 6.97–8.14 mg TE.g-1 (Trolox equivalent) of antioxidant activity by DPPH method, and 110.52 to 142.61 mg TE.g-1 of AA by phosphomolybdenum method. At the flowering stage found the following results: 27.16–78.11 mg GAE.g-1 of polyphenol compounds, 4.97–17.16 mg CAE.g-1 of phenolic acids, 18.27–54.26 mg QE.g-1 of flavonoids, 4.6–6.69 mg TE.g-1 of AA by DPPH method, and 45.16–110.27 mg TE.g-1 of antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method. A very strong correlation found between antioxidant activity by phosphomolybdenum method and TPAC (r = 0.883), TPC (r = 0.858), and TFC (r = 0.843) at the flowering stage. These results can be used for further biochemical and pharmacological investigations of these plants.

Variation of Fruits Morphometric Parameters and Iridoid Content of Lonicera caerulea L. Germplasm Collection

The dark-blue, fleshy berries of Lonicera caerulea L. are used as fresh or processed in many products such as juice, smoothie, wine, compote, jam, marmalade, candies, chocolate, cake, or extracts. L. caerulea fruits are appreciated in the food industry and medicine mainly due to a high content of biologically active phenolic compounds, especially anthocyanins and vitamin C – in the amount up to 186 mg.100 g-1, and health-promoting properties. Thirty-four genotypes of Lonicera caerulea species originated from germplasm collection of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine in M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of NAS of Ukraine (NBG) (Kyiv, Ukraine) and were characterized by using the morphometric traits and iridoids content. Differences between the genotypes were significant in all observed parameters. The fruits of L. caerulea collection varied in evaluated morphometric parameters as follows: fruit weight 0.70–1.54 g, length 15.33–26.52 mm, diameter 7.12–13.10 mm. The shape indexes of fruits varied from 1.42 to 3.65. Our results showed that the content of iridoids ranged from 97 to 314 mg.100 g-1 of fresh L. caerulea fruits. Interestingly, L. caerulea berries taste differs between the varieties, those with bitter or sour-bitter taste are distinguished by the highest content of iridoids (225–314 mg.100 g-1), while berries without bitter taste were characterized by significantly lower contents. Thus, honeysuckle berries should be selected preferentially regarding their bitterness, due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties of iridoids.

Phenological Growth Stages According to the BBCH Scale Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb.

Phenology is a key trait of plants of all species, as it determines their season and duration of growth and reproduction, as well as their ability to capture variable resources. Understanding the phenology of Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. a rare but promising fruit and medicinal plant of Ukraine, namely the codification of the stages of seasonal development, according to the international BBCH scale, is important for the evaluation of breeding material and the development of new varieties, improving the technological qualities of fruits. In the climatic conditions of Ukraine (M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv), the studied genotypes of E. multiflora go through a full cycle of development. Plants begin the growing season with the development of leaves and shoots. According to the international BBCH scale, they clearly distinguish eight of the ten main stages of seasonal development, in particular: the development of buds (Principal growth stage 0), leaves (Principal growth stage 1), shoots (Principal growth stage 3), inflorescence emergence (Principal growth stage 5), flowering (Principal growth stage 6), fruit development (Principal growth stage 7), fruit ripening (Principal growth stage 8) and senescence and the onset of dormancy (Principal growth stage 9). The proposed BBCH scale for characterizing the phenological stages of E. multiflora plants can be used to guide the growers as to when to carry out orchard management practices such as canopy training and pruning, nutrient and water application, pest and disease control and post-harvest processing. Correct identification of phenological stages is of great importance for the characterization and management of E. multiflora. Thus, this study will ensure the dissemination of knowledge about E. multiflora cultivars among growers and researchers.

Comparative Study of Biochemical Composition of Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. Genotypes

The review of previous studies on Paulownia spp. showed that these plants are valuable raw materials with polyfunctional use among which are medicinal, forage, energetic, etc. This study demonstrated the accumulation of selected biochemical components in the different parts of Paulownia tomentosa (Thunb.) Steud. genotypes plants by the end of vegetation collected from experimental collections of M. M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The accumulation of selected nutrients in the leaves was the following: a dry matter of 24.09–29.44%, lipid content of 5.01–8.58%, total sugar content of 5.51–9.82%, mono sugar content of 1.73–6.17%, ash content of 1.09–8.96%, phosphorus content of 0.47–1.60%, calcium content of 1.41–3.43%, and heating value of raw material of 4,083.09–4,353.11 Kcal.kg-1. In the branches of investigated genotypes on average accumulated 37.5–46.0% of dry matter, 3.69–6.52% of lipids, 6.66–19.96% of total sugar content, 1.95–5.75% of mono sugar content, 1.43–2.93% of ash content, 0.38–0.89% of phosphorus content, 0.515–1.61% of calcium content, and 3,911.45–4,290.78 Kcal.kg-1of heating value. The trunks had 40.09–51.5% of dry matter, 2.0–6.14% of lipids, 6.44–20.48% of sugars, 1.6–3.67% of mono sugars, 1.18–2.53% of ash, 0.22–0.40% of phosphorus, 0.37–0.63% of calcium, and 4,073.45–4,525.28 Kcal.kg-1 of heating value. A very strong correlation was found between sugars and mono sugars content in the leaves (r = 0.859), lipids and phosphorus (r = 0.864) in the branches, heating value, and calcium (r = 0.820) in the trunks. Due to the increasing interest in the growth and use of P. tomentosa during the last time, this study can be useful for further breeding work with this species as biofuel, forage, and medicinal plants.

Flora of the botanical-geographical plot “Steppes of Ukraine” in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine

In 2020–2022, the complete taxonomic composition of the flora for the botanical-geographical plot “Steppes of Ukraine” at the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the NAS of Ukraine (NBG) was studied and analyzed. This plot was established at the NBG in 1949 to demonstrate the floristic diversity of the Ukrainian Steppes ex situ. According to the inventory results, 347 species and infraspecific taxa from 196 genera and 53 families of higher vascular plants were recorded in the flora of the plot. The steppic component of this plot joins 213 species and infraspecific taxa (61.38 % of the total number of inventoried taxa) belonging to the collection fund and representing the flora of the Steppes of Ukraine, 126 species and infraspecific taxa (36.31 %) of which are introduced plants and 87 species and infraspecific taxa (25.07 %) are native plants. During the inventory, spontaneously growing plants that are not a part of the collection fund were precisely studied. Among inventoried plants, native non-steppic plants are represented by 46 species and infraspecific taxa (13.26 %); alien plants – by 88 taxa (25.36 %), including ergasiophygophytes (45 taxa, 12.97 %) and xenophytes (43 taxa, 12.39 %). The plants of the collection fund predominate on the plot and form the main vegetation cover.Currently, the taxonomic composition of the plot is similar to the characteristics of regional meadow-steppes. The perennials dominate in the biomorphological structure of the plot’s flora (63.69 %), which is typical for the steppic phytocoenoses. In general, a significant number of trees is present here (5.48 %), which is explained by the forest communities surrounding the plot and, as a result, their active self-sowing. Hemicryptophytes prevail in the plot’s flora (60.52 %). Nevertheless, the collection fund of the plot is distinguished by the absence of trees, a greater number of perennials (79.34 %), and hemicryptophytes (72.77 %). The steppic (33.33 %) and marginal (33.33 %) plants prevail in the collection fund, while the amount of meadow plants (18.78 %) is still significant. In the plot “Steppes of Ukraine”, most of the rare introduced plants formed stable homeostatic introduction coenopopulations. Among them, 15 species and rare infraspecific taxa are listed in the Red Book of Ukraine.

Peculiarities of the distribution of assimilates in the organs of Schisandra chinensis plants under different soil and climatic conditions

Peculiarities of accumulation of nutrients in the leaves of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. and rhizosphere soil under the conditions of its continuous monoculture have been studied. Comparative analysis of the distribution of nutrients in the leaves of plants under different soil and climatic conditions revealed significant differences. It was found that plants grown on podzolic chernozem of Kolomyia State Forest Fund (Otyniia, Ukraine) were characterized by more intensive absorption of such nutrients as Ca, Si, P, Cu, Zn and Mg. The content of P, K, S, Mn was much higher in the foliar tissues of S. chinensis plants cultivated on the territory of the M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden (Kyiv, Ukraine) in the conditions of dark grey forest soil. The high ability of plants to accumulate and release Mg into the rhizosphere soil was revealed, which is fully consistent with the selective ability of plants to release mineral elements into the soil environment in accordance with their ecomorphotypes. At the same time, the amount of Ca in the rhizosphere soil decreased significantly at the end of the vegetative period, which could be explained, on the one hand, by the intensive influx of Ca into plant tissues and, on the other hand, by participation in chemical balancing processes to reduce manganese and nitrogen mobility in the soil. Barrier-free accumulation of Fe, Ca, Mg, Al elements in S. chinensis leaves was revealed, which should be taken into account when developing plant cultivation technology. The studies of allelopathy activity of vegetative and generative organs of plants and rhizosphere soil have shown that phenolic substances accumulate in small amounts in the soil under S. chinensis, which is a prerequisite for successful cultivation of this fruit vine in the Forest-Steppe zone of Ukraine under conditions of continuous long-term cultivation. The largest amount of phenolic substances was in the upper soil horizons, which gradually decreased with depth, which is consistent with the course of redox processes for the studied soil profiles. The pool of free amino acids of S. chinensis plants growing in different soil and climatic conditions was analyzed, the concentration of amino acids in the leaves was the most indicative. Evaluation of the quantitative and qualitative distribution of free amino acids in plant tissues serves as a diagnostic sign of plant sensitivity to soil and climatic conditions.

Nursery screening of poplar and willow clones for biofuel application in Ukraine

Poplars and willows are fast-growing trees that can be effectively grown as a renewable energy source. This study was devoted to the preliminary screening of poplar and willow clones for biofuel application in a fast-growing tree nursery established in the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The nursery includes 19 Populus and 10 Salix clones, with many hybrids of Ukrainian origin. The clones were assessed in the first two years in the nursery using growth parameters, biomass fuel criteria, and susceptibility to pathogens. Using total rank for evaluation, the highest rank was found in the poplar clone “Kanadska × balsamichna” followed by the clones “Ivantiivska”, “Volosystoplidna”, “Perspektyvna”, and “Nocturn”. Among the willows, the highest rank was recorded for the clone “Zhytomyrska-1”, followed by clone “Zhytomyrska-2”. High ranks were also found in the poplars “Strilopodibna”, “Mobilna”, “Novoberlinska-7” and “Keliberdynska”, and the willows “Lisova pisnya” and “Vinnytska”. Thus, the above-mentioned clones may be recommended as promising trees, though they should be further evaluated under field conditions for growth performance within the short-rotation cycles. The clones with the lowest total rank were poplars “Bolle”, “Gradizka” and “Kytaiska × piramidalna” and willows “Lukash”, “Olimpiisky vohon” and “Pryberezhna” are not recommended for bioenergy short-rotation plantations. Evaluation of plants in the nursery allowed us to carry out rapid and cost-effective preliminary screening. Such multiclonal screening of bioenergy trees for planting in short rotations was described for the first time in Ukraine.

IDENTIFICATION OF VITAMIN C IN FLOWERS AND LEAVES MALUS SPP.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ascorbic acid content in vegetative and generative organs of crabapple from the collection of the M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. Considering the abundant flowering, higher fruiting in comparison with Malus domestica Borkh., increased content of nutrients and biologically active substances in flowers and leaves of crabapple, they deserve wide use in production. The genotypes were planted to a permanent place of growth in 2014. Total ascorbic acid content in flowers ranged from 116 (Holliana) to 188 (Era) mg / 100 g, in leaves from 112 (Van Ezeltin) to 183 (Royalty) mg / 100 g.
 The objects of the study are valuable for use as raw materials of biologically active additives. Using the flowers and leaves of Malus spp., As raw materials for the production of dry powder, will meet the needs of consumers for affordable and nutritious ingredients rich in vitamin C.