Comparative phenology and floral patterns in Larrea species (Zygophyllaceae) in the Monte desert (Mendoza, Argentina)

Phenological patterns and floral stages are described for Larrea divaricata, L. cuneifolia, andL. nitida in the Monte desert. In addition, floral structures and their relation to self-pollination levels are compared. Rainfall events and/or microclimatic conditions resulted in phenological differences between sites and years. Seven floral stages were determined and protogyny was detected in the early stages. Larrea divaricata, L. cuneifolia and L. nitida were observed to have a range of large to small floral structure sizes, respectively. This coincides with an increase of autogamy, while at the same time an increase in the percentage of flowers with protogyny.