Phytotoxic activity of differents plant parts of Drimys brasiliensis miers on germination and seedling development

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytotoxic activity of aqueous extracts from mature leaves, stem bark and roots of Drimys brasiliensis Miers on germination and initial seedling development of two target species, Triticum aestivum L. (wheat) and Raphanus sativus L. (radish). The aqueous extract was prepared in a proportion of 10 g of plant powder, dissolved in 100 mL of distilled water, resulting in a 10% extract concentrate. Dilutions were made with distilled water to 7.5; 5.0; 2.5% and 0% (control). Germination and seedling growth bioassays were carried out under controlled laboratory conditions. The different plant parts exerted inhibitory effects on germination and early growth of wheat and radish, however, the extract obtained from the leaves was more effective in inhibiting the germination of radish. All plant parts of D. brasiliensis may constitute a promising source in the search for compounds capable of acting as natural phytotoxins.