Anthecological features, seed production and seed germination of Phlomis tuberosa L. (Lamiaceae) in forest-steppe area of Zauralie

During many years we studied details of flowering, pollination, seed production and seed germination of Phlomis tuberosa L. in mixed-grass and feather grass steppes of forest-steppe area of Zauralie (Chelyabinsk region, Troitsk forest-steppe reserve). Day type of flowering is normal for this plant. Mass flowering was observed between 9 and 13 o'clock. Peak of flowering was observed near 12 o'clock. Flowers were weak protandric, that didn't prevent self-pollination in the form of autogamy. Seed production was possible while isolation of generative shoots. The main type of pollination is cross-pollination, self-pollination fulfills safety function. The main pollinators of specialized flowers of this plant in natural habitats are long-proboscis bumblebees and single bees. Seed production was dependent on weather conditions, mean values are high. Like good seed germination it provides successful seed reproduction of the species in the arid conditions of forest-steppe Zauralie.