Population biology of Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch. introduced into the forest-steppe zone of the Russian Federation
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62687/NSJ.1.1.2025.5Keywords:
Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch., introduction, ontogenesis, development period, ontogenetic state, morphological characteristics, seed productivity.Abstract
Abstract. The development of new green building elements and expansion of the range of ornamental plants used in landscape gardening remains a pressing issue today. In this regard, interest is growing in potential introduced species, particularly perennials, that could be used in various landscape designs. The objectives of this study included investigating the population biology of Allium aflatunense B.Fedtsch. during its introduction to the forest-steppe zone of the Russian Federation (Central Black Earth Region, Voronezh). A. aflatunense is widely used in landscape design due to its bright purple, star-shaped flowers and striking umbel-shaped inflorescence on a tall stem. After flowering, the umbels retain their ornamental value until the seeds are fully ripened. Thus, the ornamental value of the specimens is maintained throughout the entire growing season. The study was conducted from 2023 to 2025 at the B.A. Keller Botanical Garden of the Voronezh State Agrarian University. The ontogenesis and seed production of the specimens were studied. Over the three years of introduction, A. aflatunense plants underwent three stages and seven ontogenetic states: seed, seedling, juvenile, immature, virginal, latent generative, and young generative. The mid-life generative stage was additionally described using 10- to 12-year-old specimens. The article presents diagnostic features and biomorphological characteristics of all stages. Data on the species' seed productivity under the introduction conditions are also presented. The developmental characteristics of A. aflatunense grown in the forest-steppe conditions of the Central Chernozem Region suggest the success of the species' introduction and recommend it as an ornamental plant for landscaping. To initiate seed generation in specimens as early as the second year of development, vernalization of plants during the intermediate winter period should be used.
