Investigations on Floral Characteristics and Pollination-related Traits of Drumstick (Moringa oleifera L.)

Abstract

Drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) is an important multipurpose crop whose reproductive performance is closely associated with floral biology and pollination-related traits. This study investigated floral architecture, flower-bud development, anthesis, anther dehiscence, pollen viability, stigma receptivity and nectar characteristics of the PKM-1 variety under Bengaluru conditions during 2023–2024. The study used a Randomised Complete Block Design. Flowers and floral buds were sampled and observed for morphological and temporal traits using the procedures described in the study. Flower-bud development from visible initiation to opening required 24–27 days, with a mean of 26.15 ± 1.03 days. Anthesis occurred throughout the day, with the greatest flower opening recorded in the early morning, particularly between 0500 and 0600 hr. Anther dehiscence began shortly after anthesis and was completed in approximately 1 hr 12 min. Pollen was viable from anthesis and remained viable up to 72 hr, whereas stigma receptivity began 1 hr after anthesis and continued up to 42 hr. Each flower produced a mean nectar volume of 1.36 ± 0.32 µl, with total soluble solids of 23.10 ± 4.09%. The observed temporal overlap between pollen viability and stigma receptivity, together with nectar production and floral architecture, provides baseline information on the floral and pollination-related traits of PKM-1 drumstick under the study conditions.