Acacia mearnsii De Wild. (Fabaceae) reproductive biology II: flowering and fructification phenology
Acacia mearnsii flowering and fructification were evaluated in trees in an Provenance and Progeny Test and on a commercial plantation in 2001 and 2002. The activity index demonstrated the existence of synchrony in flower bud formation both in the Provenance and Progeny Test (92.8% in 2001 and 70% in 2002) and on the commercial plantation (97% in 2002). Flower opening was synchronized in the Provenance and Progeny Test (85.6% in 2001 and 66% in 2002) and on the commercial plantation (78% in 2002). Fruit formation was synchronic as well and occurred shortly after the peak of flower opening. The development and maturation of the fruits lasted 12 months and was followed by seed dispersion. Morisita´s index confirmed the seasonality of the phenological events.