Aboveground biomass, energy content and phenology of Veronica officinalis L. (Scrophulariaceae) population under different canopy density of beech stand

We studied the biomass, density and length variability of shoots, energy content and phenology of Veronica officinalis L. populations growing in beech forest with different canopy density. The average values of shoot density, length, weight and energy contents of the studied species recorded in 1994-1995 considerably varied according to the tree canopy: 2-195 shoots per m(2), 9.3-29.7 cm, 0.105-0.435 gram and 6.14-1,351.7 kJ.m(2), 18.372-19.453 kJ.g(-1) (fertile shoots), 18.135-18.970 kJ.g(-1) of dry matter (sterile shoots), respectively. Statistical analysis performed on the energy values between years 1994-1995 confirmed significant differences in the case of fertile shoots. In accordance with the current climatic conditions, in 1994 all phenophases were shifted earlier compared to 1995. Full flowering date was recorded during the first pentade of June in both years.