An experimental approach for developing seed lines of new Australian native flowering pot plants

The Centre for Native Floriculture identifies and develops new Australian native species for floriculture markets. Two species that have been selected as seed lines for flowering pot plant markets are Brunonia australis (Goodeniaceae) and Calandrinia sp. (Portulacaceae). B. australis is an annual or perennial herb that produces blue inflorescences on tall slender stalks. Calandrinia sp. (not yet fully classified) is a succulent herb with violet to pink flowers and a contrasting throat. Developing these species as new seed lines requires knowledge of the environmental factors that regulate seed germination, vegetative growth and flowering to allow potential growers to schedule flowering and meet market requirements. For many species, temperature, daylength and light intensity are the main factors that control flowering when water and nutrients are non-limiting. However, juvenility and the stage of plant development can alter plant responses to environmental stimuli. Development and flowering requirements of B. australis and Calandrinia sp. were investigated using controlled growth environments and field trials with a focus on seed germination, juvenility, floral ontogeny, time to flowering and growth habit. The outcomes of these studies, benefits to floriculture and future work are discussed. This work will assist in the domestication of these species and may provide a good experimental approach for developing seed lines of new Australian native flowering pot plants.