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Where did he seeds come from?
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Posted by simonauv NSW Aust (svavevav@idx.com.au) on Fri, Mar 30, 07 at 9:12
| On the property we have recently purchased in Tasmania we have a very neglected Leucadendron salignum growing that is in dire need of some restoration work. Now my understanding is that Leucadendron sp. are dioeceus, i.e. they have separate male and female plants. We have only one growing on the property and it appears to be a female plant because its old seed cones have seeds in them. Plants don't develop seeds unless the ovum is fertlised as far as I know but there are not other plants around and there is no evidence of one being there in the recent past. The plant growing next to it is a protea nerifolia. What are the chances that it could be a hybrid between the protea and the leucadrendron? I've sown some of the seeds to see if anything comes up and if so what they will look like.
Cheers,
Simon |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Where did he seeds come from?
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| I don't believe there are any records of generic hybrids among South African Proteaceae (or Australian ones either, for that matter). Often seeds will appear to set but are not viable. And I believe that what appear to be seeds in most African Proteaceae are in fact small dry fruits, which may not even contain a seed. You should try to carefully slice open a few 'seeds' with a very sharp blade to see if there seem to be any embryous in them. You may need to use a lens. |
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