Search Results (145)

Clematis L., a significant genus of climbing plants within the Ranunculaceae family, boasts widespread germplasm resources distributed across temperate to tropical regions globally, with Asia preserving particularly abundant native populations. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in Clematis research: in terms of physiological characteristics, the research focuses on the evolution of plant classification, chromosomal evolutionary features revealed by karyotype analysis, and studies on genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships based on molecular markers; in breeding methods, it summarizes the two major technical systems of sexual and asexual reproduction; regarding ornamental traits, it emphasizes the molecular mechanisms of flower color and form development, and synthesizes breakthroughs in techniques for flowering period regulation and research on the biosynthesis pathways of floral scent metabolites; in the field of stress resistance mechanisms, it thoroughly examines physiological responses and molecular adaptation mechanisms under abiotic stresses such as UV radiation, drought, high temperature, and intense light, and outlines research progress on pathogen types of major diseases; in studies of medicinal value, it highlights the material basis and mechanisms of pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antitumor effects. Through multidimensional comprehensive analysis, this review aims to elucidate the comprehensive development potential of Clematis, providing theoretical foundations and practical guidance for germplasm resource innovation, breeding of high-ornamental-value cultivars, and stress resistance applications. Full article

Ulex europaeus L. has been introduced into many countries as an ornamental and hedgerow plant, and it often escapes its intended location, establishing dense, feral thickets. These thickets threaten the structure and function of native flora and fauna in areas where the plant has been introduced. Because of its invasive nature, U. europaeus is considered one of the world’s 100 worst alien invasive species. It exhibits rapid growth, and high biomass accumulation with a high nitrogen fixation ability. Its flowering phenology depends on local conditions and population. It produces a large number of viable seeds and establishes extensive seed banks. These seeds remain viable for a long time due to physical dormancy. Ulex europaeus produces elaiosomes on the seed surface that are likely used solely for seed dispersal by ants. Ulex europaeus has a high level of genetic diversity due to its allohexaploid chromosome sets. This allows the plant to adapt to different habitats and tolerate various climate conditions. It can survive in areas with limited sunlight beneath tall plant canopies. Its shade tolerance surpasses that of other shrub species. Ulex europaeus produces several compounds, including quinolizidine alkaloids, monoterpenes, flavonoids, and cinnamic acid derivatives. These compounds play a role in defensive responses to biotic stressors, including pathogen infections, herbivorous insects, and neighboring plants competing for resources. These life history traits and defensive abilities may contribute to the expansion of U. europaeus populations into new habitats, enabling the plant to thrive as an invasive species. This is the first study to examine the invasiveness of U. europaeus in terms of its growth, reproduction, ability to adapt to different conditions, and defensive responses to biotic stressors. Full article

This investigation focuses on urban ornamental greenery, a field of research that is still relatively unexplored in Italy but is becoming increasingly important both from a botanical point of view and in relation to sustainable land management and planning. A checklist of the ornamental vascular flora of Basilicata (Southern Italy) is reported here. A total of 281 taxa were recorded, including trees, shrubs, herbaceous plants, and succulents cultivated in parks, gardens, and street trees. Such taxa (including 265 species s. str., 6 varieties, 5 subspecies, and 11 forms) belong to 201 genera, included in 94 families, among which the most represented are Rosaceae, Oleaceae, Asteraceae, Pinaceae, Cupressaceae, and Fabaceae. Phanerophytes represent the dominant growth form, and the chorological spectrum is composed mainly of Asian and American taxa. Taxa from subtropical and tropical biomes also showed a significant presence. This study highlighted the clear prevalence in the Basilicata ornamental flora of alien taxa (approximately 80%, of which 21% are naturalized aliens) compared to native ones, which is a phenomenon that is unfortunately widespread and observed worldwide. Full article

This study documents the diversity, ethnobotany, and ethnolinguistic aspects of Passifloraceae species in Non Din Daeng District, Buri Ram Province, Thailand. Field surveys conducted from April 2024 to March 2025 recorded nine taxa across three genera, including two native species (Adenia heterophylla and A. viridiflora) newly reported for Buri Ram Province, and seven taxa (Passiflora ‘Soi Fah’, P. edulis f. flavicarpa, P. miniata, P. trifasciata, P. vesicaria, Turnera subulata, and T. ulmifolia) representing new provincial records. Native species were primarily associated with dry dipterocarp and mixed deciduous forests, whereas introduced taxa occurred mainly in cultivated or disturbed habitats, reflecting both ecological adaptability and human-mediated introduction. Ethnobotanical data revealed diverse uses including food, traditional medicine, ornamentals, beverages, and economic purposes with P. edulis f. flavicarpa and A. viridiflora having particularly high cultural and economic significance. Passiflora flower also holds cultural prominence, inspiring local and iconic textile motifs of Non Din Daeng. Vernacular names and terminology provide insights into local classification systems and cultural perceptions of these plants. Conservation assessments indicate potential threats to A. heterophylla from wild harvesting, whereas cultivated and naturalized Passiflora taxa are assessed as Least Concern. The results highlight the ecological, cultural, and economic value of Passifloraceae in Non Din Daeng District and emphasize the role of community knowledge in biodiversity conservation and sustainable management. Full article

In response to the increasing interest in medicinal plants, researchers have called for the investigation of underexplored, widely distributed species, such as those within the Camellia genus. Camellia japonica L., though not native to Galicia (NW Spain), is widely cultivated there, primarily for ornamental purposes. Recent phytochemical analyses of C. japonica leaves have identified a variety of bioactive compounds, with phenolic compounds being the most abundant, along with carotenoids, terpenoids and fatty acids. These molecules exhibit a range of biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Nonetheless, certain constituents, such as saponins, triterpenes, and tannins, may exhibit anti-nutritional or mild toxic effects under specific conditions. This review specifically examines the bioactive compounds found in C. japonica leaves and their associated health benefits. Furthermore, it underscores the need for innovative approaches to develop sustainable industrial processes for utilizing C. japonica leaves, with potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Full article

The Metropolitan Area of the Valley of Mexico (MAVM), home to more than 20 million inhabitants, faces intense urban and industrial pressures that have led to habitat loss, fragmentation, and a decline in native vegetation. Within this context, botanical gardens are key institutions for ex situ conservation, ecological restoration, education, and cultural preservation. This study proposes the establishment of a collection of native and endemic ornamental plants in the Botanical Garden of the Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán (FESC-UNAM), the only botanical garden located in an industrial zone of Mexico. To design this proposal, we conducted an extensive review of taxonomic, floristic, ethnobotanical, and horticultural literature, with special reference to the Flora Fanerogámica del Valle de México, and complemented it with exploratory field visits. The resulting collection comprises 35 native species across 26 families, including 17 endemic species, all adapted to xerophilous scrubland. The discussion highlights that beyond aesthetic value, many species have medicinal and cultural significance, strengthening the link between biodiversity conservation and social engagement. We conclude that this proposal enhances the dual role of the FESC Botanical Garden in preserving regional flora and promoting sustainable alternatives for urban landscaping in industrialized environments. Full article

Roses (Rosa hybrida) are among the most highly valued ornamental plants worldwide, with flower color serving as a major determinant of consumer preference and commercial success. However, the absence of the flavonoid 3′,5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H) gene limits delphinidin biosynthesis, making it difficult to achieve blue or purple pigmentation. Vacuolar sodium/proton antiporters (NHX) regulate vacuolar pH and are also implicated in color stability. In this study, we introduced Viola tricolor F3′5′H (VtF3′5′H) and Rosa hybrida NHX (RhNHX) into the rose cultivar ‘Red Farm’ using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The non-native VtF3′5′H gene was detected in transgenic plants but not in the wild type, while RhNHX expression was relatively higher in transgenic plants. Petal anthocyanin content was significantly increased in T1–T4 compared to the wild type, and petal pH was also higher than that of the wild type. Growth and floral traits were also altered. Transgenic plants exhibited shorter stems, reduced stem diameter, more lateral branches, fewer prickles, and more than threefold higher petal numbers. Expression analysis showed reduced GA20-oxidase (GA20ox1) and GA3-oxidase (GA3ox) levels and increased GA2-oxidase (GA2ox) and GA2-oxidase6 (GA2ox6), particularly in stems, suggesting enhanced gibberellin (GA) inactivation. Overexpression of VtF3′5′H and RhNHX led to simultaneous changes in floral pigmentation and plant morphology. These findings indicate that both genes play functional roles in color development and growth regulation in roses. Full article

Polemonium caeruleum L. (Polemoniaceae) is a perennial flowering plant native to Eurasia and North America, which is used as a fodder, medicinal, and ornamental plant. Many issues related to the taxonomy and origin of this valuable species still remain unclear. The intraspecific genetic variability of P. caeruleum and chromosomal organization of its genome are insufficiently studied. For the first time, we analyzed NGS genomic data of P. caeruleum using ReapeatExplorer2/TAREAN/DANTE Pipelines. In its repeatome, we identified 66.08% of Class I retrotransposons; 0.57% of Class II transposons; 0.42% of ribosomal DNA; and 0.87% of satellite DNA (six high-confident and three low-confident putative satellite DNAs). FISH chromosome mapping of seven tandem DNAs was carried out in two P. caeruleum varieties and two wild populations. Our results demonstrated the effectiveness of using satDNAs Pol_C 46 and Pol_C 33 in combination with 45S rDNA and 5S rDNA for precise chromosome identification. This approach allowed us to study intraspecific chromosomal variability and detect chromosomal rearrangements in the studied accessions of P. caeruleum, which could be related to the speciation process. These novel molecular markers are important for chromosome studies within Polemonium to clarify its taxonomy and phylogeny, and also, they expand the potential of different breeding programs. Full article

Urban gardens play a vital role in enhancing the quality of the environment and biodiversity. However, irregular rainfall and poor soil drainage due to climate change have increased the exposure of garden plants to waterlogging stress. Pseudolysimachion linariifolium (Pall. ex Link) Holub, a perennial herbaceous plant native to Northeast Asia, is widely used for its ornamental value in urban landscaping. However, its physiological responses to excess moisture conditions remain understudied. In our study, we evaluated the stress responses of P. linariifolium to waterlogging by using non-destructive analysis with drone-based multispectral imagery. We used R (ver. 4.3.2) and the Quantum Geographical Information System (QGIS ver. 3.42.1) to calculate vegetation indices, including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI), Green Leaf Index (GLI), Normalized Green Red Difference Index (NGRDI), Blue Green Pigment Index (BGI), and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARI). We analyzed the indices combined with the Cumulative volumetric Soil Moisture content (SM_Cum) measured by sensors. With waterlogging treatment, NDVI decreased by 21% and GNDVI by over 34% to indicate reduced photosynthetic activity and chlorophyll content. Correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and hierarchical clustering clearly distinguished stress responses over time. Regression models using NDVI and GNDVI explained 89.7% of the variance in SM_Cum. Our results demonstrate that drone-based vegetation index analysis can effectively quantify waterlogging stress in garden plants and can contribute to improved moisture management and growth monitoring in urban gardens. Full article

Green spaces are essential for urban environments, but urban expansion often results in fragmented patches and narrow pavements unsuitable for tree growth. Consequently, there is a pressing need for alternative vegetation in urban landscapes where tree planting is impractical. Urban spontaneous vegetation (USV)—plants that establish naturally without cultivation—shows promise for urban landscaping, and yet has been underexplored in urban ecology. This study was the first systematic survey to examine the composition of USV in Chiang Mai, Thailand, across seven urban locations. The survey was conducted along 13 sidewalk routes (totaling 33.24 km), documenting all non-tree vascular plant species. A total of 63 USV species from 24 families were recorded, predominantly colonizing pavement gaps, cracks, and curbside cracks. The most diverse family was Poaceae, with 15 species. Among the 61 identified species, 32 species (52%) were non-native. Seven species were found in all surveyed locations, highlighting their adaptability to challenging urban conditions. Fifty USV species are medicinal plants. Many species exhibit characteristics that are ideal for sustainable landscaping, such as drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and ornamental value. This study highlights USV as a key component of green infrastructure and provides new insights for urban sustainable landscaping. Full article

Numerous studies have demonstrated that in residential areas of Western cities, both luxury and legacy effects significantly shape tree species diversity dynamics. However, the specific mechanisms driving these diversity patterns in China, where urbanization has progressed at an unprecedented pace, remain poorly understood. In this study we selected 20 residential settlements and 7 key socio-economic properties to investigate the change trend of tree diversity (2006–2021) and its socio-economic driving factors in Beijing. Our results demonstrate significant increases in total, native, and exotic tree species richness between 2006 and 2021 (p < 0.05), with average increases of 36%, 26%, and 55%, respectively. Total and exotic tree Shannon-Wiener indices, as well as exotic tree Simpson’s index, were also significantly higher in 2021 (p < 0.05). Housing prices was the dominant driver shaping total and exotic tree diversity, showing significant positive correlations with both metrics. In contrast, native tree diversity exhibited a strong positive association with neighborhood age. Our findings highlight two dominant mechanisms: legacy effect, where older neighborhoods preserve native diversity through historical planting practices, and luxury effect, where affluent communities drive exotic species proliferation through ornamental landscaping initiatives. These findings elucidate the dual dynamics of legacy conservation and luxury-driven cultivation in urban forest development, revealing how historical contingencies and contemporary socioeconomic forces jointly shape tree diversity patterns in urban ecosystems. Full article

Ethnobotanical knowledge and biodiversity are critical components of sustainable natural resource management, especially in regions undergoing rapid environmental and socio-economic change. In Northeast Thailand, traditional plant knowledge is deeply intertwined with local cultural identity but faces increasing threats from urbanization, agricultural expansion, and generational shifts. This study presents a floristic and ethnobotanical survey of the Khanthararat Public Benefit Forest, a community-managed remnant forest in Maha Sarakham Province, documenting 110 plant species from 42 families. The Fabaceae family was the most diverse, consistent with other tropical ecosystems. Predominantly native species (85.45%) indicate minimal disturbance, while introduced (11.82%) and endemic species (2.73%) reflect ecological complexity. Ethnobotanical data revealed 34 wild edible species, 33 medicinal plants, and 19 ornamental species used by the local community, highlighting the forest’s vital role in supporting livelihoods and cultural practices. High Use Values (UVs) for species such as Spondias pinnata and Coccinia grandis underline their dual importance in food and medicine. Informant Consensus Factor (Fic) values demonstrate strong agreement on plant use for reproductive and musculoskeletal health, reflecting well-established traditional knowledge. The findings underscore the forest’s dual significance as an ecological hotspot and a repository of cultural heritage, providing essential ecosystem services including biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and cultural provisioning. By integrating traditional knowledge with biodiversity assessment, this study offers valuable insights for community-based conservation strategies that sustain both ecological integrity and cultural resilience in Northeast Thailand. Full article

The introduction of new ornamental species and cultivars is one of the hallmarks of innovation in global floriculture. Brunfelsia uniflora, a subshrub native to Brazil, has white, lilac, and blue flowers on the same plant, in addition to a distinctive fragrance. As it is a wild species, technologies such as large-scale clonal propagation of superior genotypes are still scarce, limiting its supply to the flower market. Therefore, a successful micropropagation protocol was developed for B. uniflora using nodal segments and shoot tips as initial explants. In the multiplication phase, the use of 6-benzylaminopurine produced the highest multiplication rates (10.3–10.9 shoots/explant) and the number of leaves in the shoots. In vitro shoot rooting using MS medium with reduced macronutrient concentrations and supplemented with IBA resulted in a 91.7% rooting rate. The greatest difficulty in micropropagating this species was the high percentage of shoots that developed calli. The highest percentage of callus formation occurred with the addition of auxins at high concentrations (1.0 and 1.5 mg L⁻¹). Even so, the shoots and plantlets were acclimatized, demonstrating the effectiveness of this technique for the production of B. uniflora plantlets. Full article

Lanzhou lily is a plant native to China with high edible, medicinal, and ornamental value that is relatively susceptible to Fusarium wilt. In this study, the application of Trichoderma longibrachiatum SMF2 (TlSMF2) effectively controlled Lanzhou lily wilt disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum and F. solani. TlSMF2 and the antimicrobial peptaibols trichokonins (TKs) produced by TlSMF2 inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of these two pathogens. Transcriptome analysis revealed that the TKs-induced defense responses of Lanzhou lily were mainly related to the production of plant hormones and defense enzymes. In detail, TKs treatment increased the levels of salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) and the expression of their related genes and upregulated the activities of chitinase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). Moreover, TKs caused the induction of LzWRKY26 and LzWRKY75, which is highly homologous to LrWRKY3 that positively regulates Lilium regale resistance to F. oxysporum. LzWRKY26 expression was also induced by SA and MeJA treatments and F. oxysporum infection, which was consistent with the findings that many cis-acting elements associated with phytohormones and stress responses are present in the promoter region of LzWRKY26. Therefore, the biocontrol mechanisms of TlSMF2 against Lanzhou lily wilt disease involve substrate competition and toxicity against pathogens, as well as the induction of systemic resistance in plants. Our results highlight a promising biological control agent for soil-borne fungal diseases and offer deeper insights into the biocontrol mechanisms of TlSMF2. Full article

The Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.), an economically significant fruit tree native to China, is valued for both fresh and dried uses. In plants, 2n gametes serve as the fundamental basis for creating a sexual polyploid germplasm. This study investigated the 2n gametogenesis frequency in triploid hybrid jujubes through meiotic analysis of the hybrid strain Q161 and a two-year pollen analysis on hybrid progeny, assessing the natural 2n pollen frequencies to identify a high-2n-pollen germplasm and revealing the occurrence of 2n pollen. Meiotic analysis of the triploid hybrid Q161 (2n = 36) revealed cytological anomalies, including binucleate cells (22.80% abnormal tetrads), with natural 2n pollen production rates reaching 4.00% and 4.67% over two consecutive years. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that the 2n pollen exhibited pronounced exine ornamentation with cerebroid sculpturing and tubercle-like structures at the apertures. Analysis of the triploid progeny for two consecutive years demonstrated a pollen viability of 30.45% and 23.83% (CV: 19. 39–29.69%), with the mean 2n pollen frequencies of 22.52% and 7.64%, peaking at 52.16% and 28.95% in elite individuals. Six triploid germplasm accessions with naturally elevated 2n pollen frequencies were identified. Under natural conditions, a triploid hybrid germplasm in Chinese jujube produces 2n pollen grains due to abnormal meiotic behavior, and a natural triploid germplasm with high pollen productivity was identified. This research provides a critical theoretical foundation for sexual polyploid breeding strategies. Full article