Morphology, ecology and propagation of endangered species of Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem)Bignoniaceae) in Golparaki plain of Jiroft (Iran)

Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem. is deciduous or nearly evergreen tree that is highly valuable due to showy and beautiful flowers, resistance against extreme temperature and drought, medicinal properties, wood production and ... Morphology, ecology and propagation of this species in Golparaky plain of Jiroft was studied. The highest of its distribution in middle east is seen in this plain that has been introduced as genetic reservoir. The species grows on sand dunes and sand loams or stony places of river bed. pH of area soil is equal 7.5 and its EC is 1/3 desi zimen m -2. The amount of micro- and macro-elements and organic carbon of soil was lower than standard. Root branches are long and various which produce new plantlets using vegetative propagation even in distances of 30 m farther. The inflorescence is raceme-cyme, flowers are odorless, protoandrous and contain heteromorph stamens and adnate perianth. In the middle of flower is seen a well-developed nectary disc producing about 1 ml nectar of odorless or purple color. Flowers are cross pollinated but no pollinator was observed in pollination season. The species is fruitless and seedless although flowers seemed normal. Root branches endanger due to floods and soils of sandy and loamy. The seed absence, less vegetative propagation and losing of vegetatively propagated seedlings due to grazing by cattle and sheep and increasing dry and high increase its treat risk. Thus, its protection should be taken seriously. Also, it is recommended to consider to its vegetative reproduction.