Phenology and seed development in Mesua ferrea L., a rare medicinal tropical tree species

This paper, deals with phenology, seed set, seed development in two populations of Mesua ferrea together with biochemical changes during seed development. Though there was a slight variation in leaf and flower flushing among the two populations, further fruit/seed development did not show significant variation. Pollinating agents were also been identified. After pollination seed development was initiated with an increase in seed moisture content and fresh seed and dry weight. The moisture content started decreasing 60 days after anthesis and recorded 44.58% by 160 DAA. Total sugar, starch, protein and lipid content increased during the seed development and its role has been discussed.