The ontogenetic basis for floral diversity in the Baeckea sub-group (Myrtaceae)

Abstract

Androecial morphology differs widely amongst flowers of the Australasian Myrtaceae. Differences occur in the number, position and arrangement of stamens. Mature flowers of the Baeckea sub-group genera are superficially similar at maturity, but are very diverse in terms of their androecial structure. Floral development of six taxa in the informal Baeckea sub-group is described, and three developmental factors are identified as major contributors to mature androecial pattern. These are: differences in (i) timing of primordia initiation, (ii) duration of primordia initiation, and (iii) enlargement of the hypanthium subsequent to stamen initiation. Late or early initiation of stamens affects whe..