Floral biology in the Zanzibar type clove (Syzygium aromaticum) in Indonesia

Summary

Investigations of the floral biology of Zanzibar type cloves were carried out on five mature trees. The majority of flowers opened in the afternoon. Anther dehiscence occurred shortly after anthesis and stamens were shed almost 2 days later. Nectar appeared around the base of the stigma as anthers dehisced and remained in evidence for approximately 60 hours. Three days after anthesis a constriction around the tip of the stigma became apparent. The stigma tip subsequently withered, turned brown and was shed after a further four days. Maximum pollen viability and stigma receptivity were attained simultaneously, 48 hours after anthesis. Indications concerning the breeding system in clove are discussed and a procedure for artificial pollination is suggested