Reproductive Biology Of Etlingera Elatior (Jack.) R. M. SM. Ornamental Torch Ginger

Abstract

The reproductive biology of Etlingera elatior (Jack.) R. M. Sm. (Zingiberaceae), torch ginger was studied at Calicut University Botanical Garden, Kerala. This study seeks to determine the flowering phenology, pollen viability, stigma receptivity, identify floral visitor, identification of pollinators and evaluate pollination efficiency. E.elatior flowers all year round, with a peak flowering January to April. During the peak flowering period 18 – 24 flowers bloom on each inflorescence. One inflorescence of E. elatior has a life of 3 – 4 months. Anthesis occurs between 5.30 - 6.30 a.m. and the lifespan of single flower is 1 day. Nectarinia asiatica, Nectarinia zeylonica (Male & Female) and Tetragonula irridipennis are most efficient pollinators. Percentage of fruit set in artificial cross pollination is higher than that resulting from natural pollination, which strongly indicates that some external agents are required for effective pollination. It is the reason for low fruit set in E. elatior.