Objective: To reveal the flowering characteristics and provide theoretical basis for the breeding and cultivation of Lamium barbatum.
Method: The field observation and investigation of blooming phenophase were applied in the study growth dynamics of inflorescence and the period of the floret were measured. Then the statistic analyses of them were carried out. The pollen viability was evaluated by TTC test and the stigma receptivity was evaluated by benzidine-H2O2 method.
Result and conclusion: The flowers of L. barbatum were bisexual, with 4 to 14 flowers in an inflorescence. The population came into bloom from April to June and the blossom of a single flower could last about 3 days. Pollination peak lasted 8 hours from the very beginning of blooming, and the high stigma receptive stage remained during the same period of time. The results indicated that the breeding system of L. barbatum was outcrossing with self-compatibility and pollinators were needed based on the outcrossing index. The most frequent floral visitors were bees. The suitable breeding strategy was also discussed.