Variations in C:N:P Stoichiometry, Non-Structural Carbohydrate, Chlorophyll, and Hormones of Abelmoschus manihot Flower at Different Phenological Growth Stages
摘要
Abelmoschus manihot (A. manihot) is extensively cultivated for its edible flowers, which possess high nutritional and medicinal value. This study investigated the variations in morphological features, C:N:P stoichiometry, non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), and hormones among three parts of A. manihot flower across four phenological growth stages (PGS54, PGS57, PGS59, and PGS61). The results revealed significant variations in all tested parameters between different floral organs and growth stages. Morphological indexes showed significant differences from PGS54 to PGS61, while relative water content remained stable. Carbon content in the three parts gradually increased until PGS59, whereas the contents of nitrogen and phosphorus declined during flower development. The chlorophyll content in the petal decreased from PGS54 to PGS61 and was consistently higher than that in the androecium and pistil. The NSC components, namely glucose, sucrose, fructose, and starch, increased from PGS54 to PGS59 and then decreased towards PGS61. Developmental stages and organs significantly affected the levels of ABA, IAA, CTK, and GA3, with the highest levels observed at PGS57. Correlation analysis indicated significant differences in the accumulation and allocation of C, N, P, pigments, NSC, and hormones across the four PGS, suggesting that PGS57 represents a key transitional stage of high physiological activity. This study reveals significant variations in C:N:P stoichiometry, non-structural carbohydrates, and hormones across floral parts and phenological stages of A. manihot, identifies PGS57 as a key stage for hormone regulation and nutrient allocation, and offers practical guidance for targeted nutrient management during flower development to optimize cultivation practices.