Seed dispersal and germination behavior of three threatened endemic labiates of Cyprus

The present study examined seed dispersal and germination in three of the most threatened endemic labiates of Cyprus: Origanum cordifolium , Phlomis brevibracteata and Phlomis cypria ssp. occidentalis . Some common traits in these taxa can be correlated with their overall survival strategy. Seeds mature in mid to late summer, but most seeds remain on the mother plants until the beginning of the rainy season. The opening of the calyces containing the seeds seems to be caused by absorption of moisture. Water is also the most important dispersal factor because the seeds are dispersed by rain. Seed germination occurs at relatively low temperatures that prevail in the field at the beginning of the rainy season. This behavior provides the plants with ecological advantages because their seeds are exposed on the soil at the most appropriate period (mid to late autumn) for germination and seedling survival. The present study contributes substantially to in situ and ex situ conservation of these threatened plants.