Ontogeny and reproductive biology features of Rhodiola kirilowii (Regel) Maxim. in different light habitat conditions of the steppe zone

The paper presents research data on ontogeny of the first 7 years of Rhodiola kirilowii (Regel) Maxim. growth in the Donetsk Botanical Garden. It is shown that at three to seven years of age the plants under study were decorative enough to be used for ornament in plantings. We noted the annual fruiting of generative individuals, with self-seeding being isolated and irregular. A significant impact of habitat illumination on quality and quantity of seeding performance was revealed. Laboratory germination of R. kirilowii seeds is recommended in well-lit places. Rooting percentage of R. kirilowii cuttings was measured in the protected ground in sand and soil mix and also in open ground (well-lit and shaded areas). We revealed that it is better to carry out rooting immediately to a permanent place in the flower arrangement, regardless of the lighting of the future habitat.