Journal Article

LEAF‐SURFACE PROPERTIES IN RELATION TO TOLERANCE OF SALT SPRAY IN FESTUCA RUBRAssp. LITORALIS (G. F. W. MEYER) AUQUIER

WYN JONES, R. G., KRAUS, M. P., HUMPHREYS, M. O.

1986

Overview

Summary Leaf‐surface properties were investigated in F. rubra ssp. litoralis (G. F. W. Meyer) Auquier cv. Hawk, which is tolerant of salt spray, and cv. Aberystwyth S.59, which is susceptible. Salt retention and leaf wettabilities were measured and leaf‐surface structure was observed using a scanning electron microscope. In both cultivars stomata were confined to adaxial leaf surfaces which were less wettable than abaxial surfaces probably because of ridging and wax deposits. Salt retention after spraying was much higher per unit dry weight in S.59 than in Hawk, although salt retention per unit of projected leaf area was similar in both cultivars. This was because leaves were folded about the midrib in Hawk but were much flatter in S.59. Folding reduced the exposure of adaxial leaf surfaces to salt spray. The adaptative significance of this is discussed together with its broader physiological implications.

• Publisher: Blackwell Publishing Ltd
• Subject: Festuca rubra / leaf folding / salt spray / wettability