Floristic and Allelopathic Studies on Salvia lanigera L. and Salvia aegyptiaca L. Species in Egypt

Abstract

Background: Salvia species (Lamiaceae) are found in almost the countries from the tropical and temperate regions. Methods: About nine species and one variety of Salvia L were recorded in Egypt, of which S. lanigera and S.aegyptiaca are recorded on the western coast of Mediterranean sea. In floristic analysis, thirty stands were studied, in which 55 species associated with Salvia sp., were highlighted and presented here with their families, distribution, and life forms. Also, the allelopathic effect of the studied Salvia sp. on barley seeds was indicated at different concentrations. Results: Family Asteraceae recorded the highest associated species in number (14 species). Therophytes were the dominant life form. From an environmental point, segetalshad the largest number of associated species (43.64% from the total of species). Allelopathic effect of S. lanigera and S.aegyptiaca was examed on the germination with seedling growth for barley ( Hordeum vulgare )grains.There were strong inhibitory effects of Salvia sp. water extracts on the germination percentage of barley. The highest reduction percentage (35%) in germination was achieved by S. aegyptiaca water extract (2.5%). The germination rate was significantly sensitive to 10% and 100% of S. lanigera var . lanigera (type 1) extractswith the highest inhibition percentage (4%).