Breeding systems of Haberlea rhodopensis (Gesneriaceae), a Tertiary relict endemic to the Balkan Peninsula

This study presents the preliminary results on sexual reproduction of Haberlea rhodopensis, Gesneriaceae – a Tertiary relict and endemic species to the Balkan Peninsula. Our experiments have shown that H. rhodopensis is self-compatible, but not autogamous. Phenology of the populations, herkogamy and weak protrandry are mechanisms which favour the outcrossing in natural populations. Pollination success is characterized by high seed production. Seeds germinate readily, but grow extremely slowly and few of them survive to adult plants in culture and in natural populations.