Extrafloral Nectaries in Chamelaucium uncinatum: a First Record in the Myrtaceae

Abstract

The morphology and anatomy of cryptic extrafloral nectaries are described in Chamelaucium uncinatum Schauer. This is the first time these nectaries have been recorded in the Myrtaceae. Extrafloral nectaries occur in all leaf axils and secrete nectar continuously until the stem to which the leaf is attached becomes woody. Bees and flies visit the nectaries and collect nectar. Possible reasons for the evolution of extrafloral nectaries in C. uncinatum are discussed.