Occurrence of ‘Cleistogenes’ in certain Grasses

Abstract

BEDDOWS¹ has raised some interesting points regarding Triodia decumbens, particularly as regards the occurrence of ‘cleistogenes’ at the base of the fertile tillers in the cleistogamous form. Subsequent investigation of their structure has shown that these ‘cleistogenes’ may contain as many as three florets. Structures are present within their enveloping prophyll which possibly represent empty glumes; these, however, are by no means consistent either as to form or presence. The fertile florets, on the other hand, have well-developed flowering glume and palea. The three minute bi-sporangiate anthers are intrastigmatic. ‘Cleistogenes’ may ripen as many as two healthy caryopses, which have been found germinating in situ.