Volatile Materials Produced by Salvia leucophylla: Effects on Seedling Growth and Soil Bacteria

Abstract

Volatile materials emanating from leaves of Salvia leucophylla (Labiatae) reduce cell elongation and cell division in radicles and hypocotyls of germinating Cucumis salivus seeds. There is also an accumulation of globules, probably fats or oils, in these root cells. The volatile materials also inhibit the growth of some soil bacteria. It is suggested that the spacing and patterning of grassland species and soil microflora in and about colonies of S. leucophylla result from the inhibiting effects on young cells produced by the volatile materials emanating from leaves of the shrub. These volatiles are largely terpenes.