Floral development and breeding system of Swainsona formosa (Leguminosae)

Abstract

<jats:p>Flowers of <jats:italic>Swainsona formosa</jats:italic> (G. Don) J. Thompson (syn. <jats:italic>Clianthus formosus)</jats:italic> developed through seven floral stages from buds to open flowers in 17 days. Floral stages were correlated with the sigmoidal growth pattern of the peduncle. Self-pollination was prevented in the species by the presence of a stigmatic cuticle that precluded pollen germination until ruptured, exposing the receptive surface below. Cuticular rupture occurred in nature during bird-pollination and was emulated manually by lightly rubbing a pollen-covered finger across the stigma. The species was self-compatible, and to ensure cross-fertilization when breeding, emasculation before anther dehiscence was essential.</jats:p>