Low-temperature Preservation of Clianthus formosus Pollen

Abstract

Pollen from Clianthus formosus (G. Don) Ford and Vickery was tested for viability after desiccation and exposure to low temperatures. Desiccation for 3 hours before freezing at –180C was sufficient for maintaining pollen germination. Pollen dried for a longer time showed reduced germination when plated directly. However, when pollen was rehydrated by exposure to high humidity before plating, germination was not reduced.