First Report of Flexistyly in Plagiostachys (Zingiberaceae)

Abstract

Field observations of Bornean gingers have revealed that Alpinia havilandii and Plagiostachys strobilifera exhibit flexistyly-a novel floral strategy involving extreme stigmatic movement that enhances outcrossing. Alpinia, Amomum, and Etlingera are known to exhibit flexistyly; however, flexistyly in Plagiostachys has remained unconfirmed, although the genus was believed to possess this floral strategy. This report provides concrete evidence of flexistyly in Plagiostachys.