Floral development, stigma receptivity and pollen viability in eight Nolana (Solanaceae) species

Nolana L.f. is a large, diverse genus in the Solanaceae endemic to the coastal deserts of Peru and Chile. Floral development studies were conducted in eight species (Nolana adansonii, N. aticoana, N. elegans, N. humifusa, N. ivaniana, N. laxa, N. plicata, and N. rupicola) as a precursor to breeding efforts and studies of interspecific sexual compatibility. Levels of stigma receptivity and pollen viability were evaluated at different stages during flower development. Species were found to be receptive to pollination over a wide range of floral developmental stages, including stages prior to anthesis. Pollen was found to remain viable throughout the open flower period and into senescence. Floral development keys were developed which provide a visual reference correlating morphological appearance of buds and flowers of each species at each developmental stage, and their corresponding durations and levels of stigma receptivity.