Search Results (135)

(1) The primary objective was to determine whether, within this taxonomically challenging group, the closely related European species and their subspecies exhibit distinct inflorescence characters that allow for unambiguous differentiation. This study focuses on two closely related species within the genus Hierochloë: Hierochloë hirta (Schrank) Borbás and Hierochloë odorata (L.) Beauv. (2) For four subspecies, data were collected from 15 inflorescences each, while for one subspecies, 10 inflorescences were examined. From each inflorescence, six spikelets were selected. The statistical analyses were non-parametric methods, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and principal component analysis. (3) Morphological traits showed consistent patterns within each subspecies, indicating their suitability for taxonomic differentiation. The most reliable diagnostic traits were the length of the outer glume of the first flower and the lengths of the awns. (4) The study concludes that while some subspecies can be clearly distinguished based on inflorescence morphology, no single trait is sufficient to completely separate all taxa. The authors recommend recognizing Hierochloë odorata subsp. praetermissa as a subspecies rather than a distinct species and affirm the validity of the species names Hierochloë hirta and Hierochloë odorata. Full article

Floral ontogeny in soybean (Glycine max) is governed by multilayered regulatory hierarchies that integrate phytohormonal cues with precisely choreographed gene-expression programs. Yet, the transcriptomic architecture underpinning this continuum remains only partially resolved. Here, we generated a strand-specific, high-depth temporal transcriptome atlas of soybean inflorescences spanning four morphologically defined stadiums (Stadium 0–Stadium 3). We detected transcriptional activity for 60,889 loci; pairwise stadium contrasts revealed 4000–7000 differentially expressed genes, with the most extensive reprogramming coinciding with the onset of anthesis (Stadium 2). Unsupervised clustering delineated ~600 genes peaking at the pre-anthesis phase (Stadium 1), a cohort enriched for transcriptional regulators and floral organ-identity determinants. Stadium-resolved gene-set enrichment and KEGG mapping uncovered dynamic modulation of canonical hormone-signaling pathways—including auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin, abscisic acid, ethylene, jasmonate, and salicylate circuits—reflecting shifting developmental priorities. Forty-five MADS-box transcription factor genes were expressed; notably, JOINTLESS was strongly induced at anthesis, while the root-predominant factor GmNMH7 exhibited unexpected floral expression, implicating a hitherto unappreciated role in reproductive development. Quantitative RT-PCR of representative loci corroborated RNA-seq measurements. This high-resolution atlas refines our understanding of the hormonal and genetic circuitry of soybean floral morphogenesis, furnishing molecular targets for engineering flowering time and inflorescence architecture under fluctuating environmental conditions. Full article

Phenolic compounds, which are a large group of plant pigments, are recognized as important antioxidants. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), particularly the pigmented varieties, could be a source of natural anthocyanins for producing dietary foods. In this study, we analyzed forty potato specimens from our germplasm collection and breeding nurseries using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and second-order mass spectrometry to identify anthocyanins. We found seven main anthocyanins in potato tubers: delphinidin-3-glucoside, delphinidin-3-rhamnosyl-5-glucoside, petunidin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-rhamnosyl-5-glucoside, and pelargonidin-3-glucoside. Two anthocyanins were found in potato inflorescences: peonidin-3-coumaroyl glucoside and cyanidin-3-coumaroyl glucoside. On average, varieties from the group with red-purple inflorescences contained 187.6 mg/kg of anthocyanins. Genotypes with white corollas had an anthocyanin content below 0.5 mg/kg or between 1.3 and 3.6 mg/kg. Two potato varieties, Vasilek (605.2 mg/kg) and Fioletovyi (501.1 mg/kg), with blue-purple corollas, had the highest total anthocyanin content. Studying the anthocyanin profile of leaves allowed us to identify eleven anthocyanins. The highest anthocyanin content (331.3 mg/kg) was found in varieties with purple or blue-purple tubers, while the lowest content (an average of 15.1 mg/kg) was found in varieties with yellow or cream tubers. Genotypes with purple and blue-purple tuber skin had an average anthocyanin content of 190.7 mg/kg. The group with yellow and cream tubers had an insignificant anthocyanin content (1.2 mg/kg). Varieties from the group with pink tubers had an average anthocyanin content of 43.2 mg/kg. Thus, this study identified diagnostic traits that could be used to assess the morphological characteristics of potato genotypes. Full article

Efficient fruit production, quality improvement, and timely harvesting are essential in olive cultivation, which requires optimised distribution and management of fruiting sites. This study aimed to support sustainable olive crop management by analysing the morphological characteristics of five cultivars (Chemlali, Chetoui, Koroneiki, Meski, and Picholine) under semi-arid Tunisian conditions. Through a detailed architectural analysis, we investigated the relationships between branching patterns, density, distribution of inflorescence and fruit sites, biometric traits (shoot length, internode number, and shoot dimensions), and geometric variability within each cultivar. Three trees per cultivar were analysed across three architectural units. The results showed marked architectural differences, highlighting the need for cultivar-specific strategies in planting, pruning, and orchard management. The distribution of shoots across botanical orders revealed unique branching patterns: Chemlali and Koroneiki showed thinner shoots and higher shoot density, reflecting strong apical dominance and their suitability for hyper-intensive systems. In addition, nonsignificant differences in long shoots’ insertion angles between Meski, Chetoui, and Koroneiki suggest compatibility for co-cultivation, facilitating mechanised maintenance and harvesting. Emphasis on inter-cultivar compatibility and architectural coherence is crucial for orchard design. These findings provide important insights for optimising orchard management practices to improve productivity, fruit quality, and operational efficiency. Full article

Fire blight, a devastating bacterial disease caused by Erwinia amylovora, has posed significant challenges to apple and pear production for over a century. This study introduces a gliding filamentous bacterium, the strain NSD29, isolated from natural forest soil in Xinjiang, China, as a biological control agent for managing this disease. Comprehensive characterization based on morphological, physiological, biochemical, 16S rRNA gene, and whole-genome analyses identified the strain NSD29 as Herpetosiphon llansteffanensis. The train NSD29 demonstrated potent predatory activity against E. amylovora in vitro. Its biocontrol efficacy was subsequently evaluated on detached leaves, inflorescences, young fruit, and shoots of fragrant pear under controlled greenhouse conditions. Results indicated that applying H. llansteffanensis NSD29 significantly inhibited lesion expansion on pear leaves and young fruit, achieving protective efficacies of 75.2% and 72.0%, respectively. Furthermore, pre-treatment spraying with NSD29 effectively reduced the incidence of blossom blight, with a control efficacy of 61.2%. On detached pear shoots, the application of NSD29 fermentation broth suppressed lesion expansion, demonstrating substantial protective (86.8%) and curative (75.6%) efficacies. This research provides the first evidence for the potential of Herpetosiphon species in the biological control of plant diseases, highlighting H. llansteffanensis NSD29 as a promising candidate for developing strategies to combat fire blight. Full article

The ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-HR-MS/MS) technique was used to characterize the polyphenolic fraction of the hot water infusion (WI) of inflorescences of Cannabis sativa L. Kompolti variety, commercially used for food preparations or cosmetic purposes. On water infusion extract, we applied a multidisciplinary approach, where NMR, MS, in vitro cell-free and cell-based assays coupled with in silico studies, were used to rationalize at the molecular level the effects of the major component Cannabidiol (CBD), in a model of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The phytochemical analysis by LC-MS/MS led to the tentative identification of many components belonging to different classes of polyphenols, such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and their glycosides. CBD and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) were also detected in good amounts in the infusion, together with several minor cannabinoids. In addition, the water infusion WI was evaluated for mineral content, total phenolic content, flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity by DPPH and FRAP methods. Notably, our results in a cellular model of PD highlight that CBD protects against rotenone-induced cell death without recovering neuronal morphology. These biological outcomes were rationalized by an in silico approach, where we hypothesize that CBD could influence the cellular response to oxidative stress via its interaction with the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. In summary, these results enriched the nutraceutical profile of the water infusion of the inflorescences of the Kompolti cultivar, which demonstrated a high CBD content. This study could lead to the development of dietary supplements that could help in the management of clinical symptoms related to the antioxidant activity of CBD in the pathophysiology of PD, which remains poorly characterized. Full article

Zingiberaceae is a diverse and culturally significant plant family across tropical Asia, yet in Roi Et Province, Thailand, it has remained poorly documented. This study aimed to provide the first comprehensive assessment of Zingiberaceae in Roi Et Province, Thailand. Previous studies in the region have been limited and did not systematically document species occurrence. The assessment began with an overview of species diversity, followed by an investigation of their ethnobotanical uses, an evaluation of their horticultural potential, and an assessment of their conservation status. Field surveys were conducted throughout Roi Et Province across various habitat types using exploratory sampling to record all observable Zingiberaceae species. Species were identified based on morphological characteristics and comparisons with existing taxonomic literature. A total of 97 species were recorded, including 86 native and 11 introduced taxa, with 23 species endemic to Thailand and 25 species featuring new distributions reported for the province. Species richness was highest in cultivated habitats, likely reflecting the active role of traditional agroecosystems in conserving both native and introduced taxa. Natural habitats such as wetlands and dry evergreen forests hosted species with restricted distributions, underscoring the need to preserve ecological heterogeneity. Ethnobotanical interviews revealed widespread local use of rhizomes and inflorescences for food, medicine, ornamentation, and ceremonial purposes. Phenological observations indicated synchronized flowering and fruiting aligned with the monsoon season, which are traits that supports successful reproduction but may also increase vulnerability under shifting climate regimes—highlighting the importance of monitoring for conservation and guiding optimal harvest timing. These findings demonstrate that both natural and cultivated systems are integral to maintaining Zingiberaceae diversity in the region. Conservation strategies should prioritize habitat protection, support traditional cultivation practices, and promote further research into economically and culturally valuable species. Full article

Haloxylon ammodendron plays a pivotal role in combating aeolian desertification and restoring degraded arid ecosystems. Strategic afforestation protocols for this xerophytic species offer dual benefits in ecological stabilization and socioeconomic development, particularly in ecotonal zones between desert and oasis ecosystems, as exemplified by the Jilantai Salt Lake region. This investigation employs allometric scaling analysis to elucidate biomass allocation strategies in H. ammodendron plantations under three distinct silvicultural approaches: soil moisture retention afforestation, water flushing afforestation, and mechanical hole afforestation. Key findings demonstrate that water flushing afforestation treatment induced significant biomass enhancement (total biomass: 1718.69 ± 214.28 g), with phylloclade (photosynthetic branch) and vegetative organ biomass increasing by 29.03% and 60.34%, respectively, compared to conventional methods. Conversely, soil moisture retention afforestation preferentially promoted lignification processes, maximizing biomass allocation to structural components (stems: 15.2% increase) and reproductive structures (inflorescences: 22.7% elevation). Standardized major axis regression revealed differential scaling exponents among organ pairs under varying treatments (stem-phylloclade: 1.798; inflorescence-phylloclade: 1.752; vegetative-reproductive: 1.672; p < 0.001), indicating treatment-specific allometric allocation patterns. Notably, soil moisture retention afforestation induced lateral crown expansion through enhanced meristematic activity in secondary branches (p < 0.01), contrasting with the apical dominance observed in water flushing afforestation and mechanical hole afforestation specimens. These morphological divergences suggest resource allocation trade-offs between vertical exploration and horizontal exploitation strategies. The differential growth trajectories were strongly correlated with edaphic moisture redistribution patterns (R² = 0.83, p < 0.001), as quantified using soil water potential measurements. This study provides mechanistic insights into phenotypic plasticity responses to silvicultural interventions. These findings advance our understanding of allometric growth regulation in a psammophyte and establish an empirical basis for optimizing desert afforestation strategies in arid transitional ecotones. Full article

Drought stress during the reproductive phase of sunflower can significantly reduce achene yield by affecting inflorescence size, nectar quality, and pollinator activity. This study aimed to analyze the morphological characteristics of the reproductive region, quantify nectar sugar components, and evaluate pollinator presence and pollination success in wild Helianthus species as an important genetic resource for breeding cultivated sunflowers under drought conditions. Morphological investigations were conducted during the flowering and achene development phases with a stereo microscope and calipers. Nectar sugar concentrations were analyzed via HPLC, and pollinator presence was monitored twice a week for two months. This study highlights the correlation between evaluated traits, emphasizing their importance as yield indicators. Significant differences were observed in reproductive characters, nectar quality, and pollination success among the species. Helianthus annuus and Helianthus argophyllus exhibited superior reproductive performance with high nectar sugar concentrations and larger inflorescences, enabling successful pollination and higher achene yield. In contrast, Helianthus debilis demonstrated lower reproductive efficiency, with a higher percentage of empty achenes. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding programs, highlighting H. argophyllus and H. annuus as promising genetic resources for developing sunflower genotypes with increased yield and improved floral traits adapted to drought conditions. Full article

Lumnitzera littorea (Jack) Voigt is an endangered mangrove species in China. Low fecundity and environmental pressure are supposed to be key factors limiting the population expansion of L. littorea. Transcription factors with the MADS-box domain are crucial regulators of plant flower development, reproduction, and stress response. In this study, we performed a comprehensive investigation into the features and functions of MADS-box genes of L. littorea. Sixty-three LlMADS genes with similar structure and motif composition were identified in the L. littorea genome, and these genes were unevenly distributed on the 11 chromosomes. Segmental duplication was suggested to make a main contribution to the expansion of the LlMADS gene family. Some LIMADS genes exhibited differential expression in different flower types or in response to cold stress. Overexpression of the B-class gene LlMADS37 had substantial effects on the flower morphology and flowering time of transgenic Arabidopsis plants, demonstrating its key role in regulating flower morphogenesis and inflorescence. These findings largely enrich our understanding of the functional importance of MADS-box genes in the inflorescence and stress acclimation of L. littorea and provide valuable resources for future genetic research to improve the conservation of this species. Full article

The genus Murdannia Royle was recognized as a member of the family Commelinaceae, known for its beautiful and outstanding flowers, which made it highly valued as an ornamental plant. In this study, three previously unidentified species of Murdannia are described as new species from Laos including Murdannia maronea, M. rhizomatosa, and M. thyrsoidea. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, phenology, and distribution of each species are provided, along with notes on their horticulture. Murdannia clandestina is reported as a new record for Laos. These four species of Murdannia are notable for their attractive flowers, particularly M. thyrsoidea, which was characterized by its large inflorescence, enhancing its potential as an ornamental plant. The pollen morphology of these four Murdannia species is described for the first time. The pollen grains share similar characteristics, being monads, medium-sized, bilaterally symmetrical, and prolate in shape, with a monocolpate aperture and verrucate exine sculpturing. These findings provided valuable insights to support future breeding efforts aimed at enhancing their ornamental value. Full article

Bassia scoparia is a widespread weedy species in the temperate regions of the world and is valued as a medicinal and ornamental plant. To date, the taxonomic concept of B. scoparia remains insufficiently studied due to a limited number of samples used in the previous phylogenetic analyses. To solve the taxonomy of the B. scoparia complex, we constructed a new phylogeny based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), plastid intergenic spacer atpB-rbcL, and plastid region rpL16 intron sequences for numerous samples with diverse morphology. Our analysis revealed a close proximity and intermixed positions of the samples of the B. scoparia group with various morphology. Because of this polyphyly, we prefer to broadly delimit the species. An updated nomenclature of B. scoparia is provided including four new synonyms: Bassia angustifolia, B. littorea, Kochia albovillosa, and K. scoparia subsp. hirsutissima. In its new circumscription, B. scoparia encompasses populations with glabrous or variously hairy leaves and perianths. The original material of Kochia sieversiana, previously considered a species with hairy leaves and inflorescences, has the same diagnostic characters as in B. scoparia s.str. The correct name for more hairy-leaved plants is B. scoparia var. subvillosa. Plants with hairy perianths known as Kochia albovillosa and K. scoparia subsp. hirsutissima have a restricted distribution in Central Asia and South Siberia and have never been recorded as alien in other regions; they can be classified as a separate variety, B. scoparia var. hirsutissima. The ornamental variant of oblong or pyramidal shape may be called B. scoparia var. trichophila. Bassia scoparia is often confused with a similarly looking relative, B. indica, especially in North Africa, a region where secondary ranges of both species overlap. Phylogenetically, these species are sister groups; they share some morphological characters but have different primary distribution ranges. We traced a recent expansion of B. indica in the Mediterranean with the first record reported from the European continent (Spain) and uncovered various introduction pathways of the species in this region. Full article

In Europe, industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is currently cultivated primarily for its fibers and seeds due to regulatory restrictions on flower use, although the flowers present untapped valorization potential. This study assesses the economic viability of cultivating hemp for its inflorescences and examines the quality impact of different cultivation methods by testing two varieties, Santhica 27 and Félina 32, across distinct growth environments. The cultivation systems tested include greenhouse-based soilless setup and open-field production. Within the greenhouse, the effects of an ethylene-based growth regulator, applied during the vegetative stage, on plant morphology and cannabinoid concentrations were assessed at three dosage levels (7.5, 15, and 30 µL L⁻¹). The results showed a dose-dependent reduction in shoot height, lasting 21 to 28 days post-treatment before diminishing. Comparable total cannabigerol (CBG) levels were achieved with Santhica 27 in both field conditions and at the 30 µL L⁻¹ ethylene dose in the greenhouse, while total cannabidiol (CBD) levels in Félina 32 were higher in the field than in the greenhouse. Overall, greenhouse cultivation yielded significantly greater cannabinoid production per square meter due to increased inflorescence biomass and the potential for multiple harvest cycles. However, operating costs for greenhouse cultivation are at least 13 to 15 times higher than those of open-field production. Economic analysis suggests that optimizing greenhouse cultivation techniques and reducing labor requirements at harvest could help mitigate these costs, enhancing the economic feasibility of greenhouse-based hemp flower production. Full article

Light is crucial for higher plants, driving photosynthesis and serving as a powerful sensory signal that profoundly modulates growth, development, physiological functions, hormone activation, and biochemical pathways. Various light parameters—quality, intensity, composition, and photoperiod—exert a tremendous influence on plant growth and development, particularly in industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.). C. sativa, a crop of historical significance and unparalleled versatility, holds immense value in the food, fiber, and medicinal industries. The cultivation of medicinal cannabis is burgeoning in controlled environments due to evolving healthcare regulations. Optimal light conditions significantly enhance both yield and harvest quality, notably increasing the density of apical inflorescences and the ratio of inflorescence to total aboveground biomass. C. sativa metabolites, especially phenolic and terpene compounds and Phytocannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol), THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and CBG (cannabigerol), possess immense medicinal value. Secondary metabolites in C. sativa predominantly accumulate in the trichomes of female flowers and surrounding sugar leaves, underscoring the critical need to boost inflorescence weight and metabolite concentrations while ensuring product consistency. Different light parameters distinctly impact C. sativa’s metabolic profile, providing a robust foundation for understanding the optimal conditions for synthesizing specific secondary metabolites. While the effects of light measurement on various crops are well-established, scientific evidence specifically relating to light quality effects on C. sativa morphology and secondary metabolite accumulation remains scarce. In this review, we critically summarized how different light properties can alter cannabis growth (vegetative and reproductive), physiology and metabolism. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which specific wavelengths influence growth, development, and secondary metabolite biosynthesis in C. sativa are not fully elucidated, which could be a prospective task for future researchers. Our review paves the way for a profound understanding of light’s influence on C. sativa growth and advancements in greenhouse settings to maximize metabolite production for commercial use. Full article

Climate change increasingly impacts urban dendroflora, affecting plant physiology and phenological phases. This paper investigates the impact of changing climatic conditions on the blooming of Fraxinus ornus ‘Globosa’, a decorative form of ash that is a significant component of green infrastructure in Novi Sad, Serbia. The research, conducted over 15 years on 42 individuals in a linear planting near a large river, analyzed temperature and precipitation effects on blooming times and inflorescence characteristics The results indicate changes in the timing of blooming, earlier than recorded in the literature, suggesting that temperature variations and changes in climatic conditions have significantly influenced the phenological phases of the selected clones of globe flowering ash. Additionally, the studied individuals showed exceptional adaptation to climate change and are not considered vulnerable. This study confirmed that this cultivar of flowering ash in urban environments is a key link in the green infrastructure of cities, functioning as green corridors along river flows as a nature-based solution. The studied cultivar is an important element of cultural heritage, contributing to the recreational potential of the linear composition of the promenade, especially during the flowering phenophase, when, in addition to its aesthetic values, it has psychological effects on users of the space, offering a calming influence due to its regular canopy and planting rhythm. Additionally, this cultivar provides important ecological functions, such as offering pollen for pollinators, thereby significantly contributing to the implementation of ecosystem services. Full article