RARELY USED AROMATIC PLANTS IN THE BASHKIR CIS-URALS

Abstract

Two rarely used aromatic species of the Apiaceae family – Silaum silaus and Levisticum officinale in their habitat were studied. Features of their seasonal growth and development rhythm, morphometric indicators were considered, success of the plant introduction was measured. The study was conducted in the South Ural botanical garden. Silaum silaus and Levisticum officinale both have spring aftergrowing at the end of April, budding in the second ten-day period of June; Levisticum officinale starts to blossom in the first ten-day period of July, while Silaum silaus starts to bloom in the second ten-day period of July. The blooming period of both plants averages 35 days. Seeds of Levisticum officinale begin to mature at the end of August, while seeds of Silaum silaus start ripening in the middle of September. In comparison to the second species Levisticum officinale features higher rates in height and stalk thickness, however, the plant forms three times fewer bottom leaves and generative shoots. Morphological indicators have standard variation rates (from 1,4 to 19,7 %). The introduction of Silaum silaus and Levisticum officinale revealed that in the Bashkir Cis-Urals the plants complete the development cycle, that is, blossom, give yield, set full seeds. The study plants can be recommended for use as raw materials in food production, cooking and alcoholic beverage production.