First account of vivipary in Saussurea lappa (Decne.) Sch. Bip. (Asteraceae)

Abstract

Saussurea lappa (Decne.) Sch. Bip. (Asteraceae) is a crop used for its medicinal and aromatic properties, but it has become critically endangered due to overharvesting in natural habitats. It is included in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and current proactive efforts include the large-scale cultivation of this species to ensure reliable seed and market supply and economic improvement in local farming communities. This plant is being propagated by seed germination for commercial purposes; hence, seeds are required for propagation purposes. Here, we present the first report of vivipary (precocious germination) in S. lappa, seemingly induced by excessive humidity resulting in limited seed production. Vivipary is significant from an agricultural perspective because it is characterised by the lack of seed dormancy with concomitant unexpected precocious sprouting of crop grains and wild species. It is a detrimental trait challenging the safeguarding of food supplies since it causes economic losses as a consequence of lower yields. The occurrence of vivipary is a rare and unique reproductive mechanism in plants and may be a strategic resource for survival in the endangered S. lappa. Forthcoming studies addressing the reproductive biology will be beneficial to understand the evolution of this species and the implications of vivipary in agriculture, seed production, and ultimately, food security in this and other commercial crops.