Abstract:
Henckelia hybrid II is a hybrid perennial flowering plant produced by wild crossing
and raring at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya. The present study was conducted
with the objective of introducing Henckelia hybrid II as a potted flowering plant to
the floriculture industry in Sri Lanka. Best cutting part for propagation and the effect
of different shade levels on growth and of Henckelia hybrid II were investigated.
This was carried out with two experimental study and the experiments were arranged
in Complete Randomized Design (CRD). In experiment 01, 3 treatments with 10
replicates were arranged and for the experiment 02, there were 5 treatments with 5
replications. Growth parameter of survival percentage was taken after one month
propagation period in experiment 01. In experiment 02, growth parameter such as
Plant height, number of leaves, number of lateral branches, average root length,
chlorophyll content and fresh mass were measured at 06th week after repotting the
plants.
Plant height was increased significantly (P<0.000) in 80% shaded plants. The lowest
plant height was recorded under the 0% shade condition. Shading significantly
increased number of leaves (P<0.000) and average root length (P<0.000).
Chlorophyll content of the plant and fresh mass of the plant also significantly
increased the plants that were highly shaded (80%).Number of lateral shoots were
not showed significant difference (P<0.708) between the treatments.
I suggest that the effect of different shade levels on the flowering of Henckelia
hybrid Il before it use as a pot ornamental plant should be carried out.
