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Pollinating species (i.platypetala)?

9 years ago

I have two plants of this which I started from separate seeds, but I have never been able to get either to produce seed, even after numerous attempts and many methods. These spend the summer outdoors in bright dappled shade, and winters indoor under lights.

I'd appreciate some reasonably detailed directions on how to do this. There's lots of pollen, and I've even tried using a small cat whisker, with no luck.

Thanks,

--Rick in CT

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Comment (1)

patchyjack
9 years ago
Have you been sure to remove the old pollen-covered stamen before trying to cross-pollinate?
The sticky anther is hidden in this species.
Once the stamen is dried up, it will often fall off by itself, but you may have to remove it with tweezers to expose the anther.

If you've already done that, then I'm afraid I don't know why it's not working.
Maybe there's not enough pollen? I use a soft-bristled paintbrush and wipe pollen grains all over the anther.

This species does grow exceptionally easily from cuttings, however.
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