Phenological growth stages of sacred Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. ex G. Don (Rudraksha) using the extended Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie scale

Abstract

AbstractA standard extended Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie (BBCH) scale is developed for an important tree species, that is, Elaeocarpus ganitrus Roxb. ex G. Don (Synonym: Elaeocarpus serratus L.) commonly known as Rudraksha. We propose a detailed description of phenological stages and climatic parameters delineating Rudraksha's major key physiological changes. Phenological factors will aid in developing measures for protecting this endangered ethnobotanical significant tree species. This manuscript proposes a monograph consisting of eight Principal Growth Stages out of 10 BBCH stages with different plant growth stages and their descriptors with specific codes. This study is the first of its kind for Rudraksha, and it will help researchers and biologists gain further insights into this sacred tree and related studies about the behaviour of this plant in changing climatic conditions.