The Phytotoxic effects of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. Extracts on Hordeum vulgare, Zea mays and Phaseolus vulgaris

Phytotoxic effects of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. Extracts

Abstract

Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth (A. lebbeck). is a large deciduous perennial tree widely prevalent in various tropical and subtropical areas. It is commonly cultivated in agricultural fields and alongside highways for purposes of fuel and shade. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the influence of A. lebbeck extracts and powder biomass on the growth and biochemical constituents of Hordeum vulgare (barley), Zea mays (maize), and Phaseolus vulgaris (bean). Fresh plant materials, such as bark and leaves were collected, shade dried and then the materials were ground into a powder for their utilization and to form the extracts. The aqueous extracts were prepared by soaking for 24, 48, and 72 hours using 5, 10, and 15 g of powder per 100 mL. The phytotoxic effects of these powder biomass and extracts on the seedling growth, and biochemical traits of barley, maize, and bean were assessed through aqueous bioassay and pot trials. All treatments significantly affected the plumule and radicle length, root numbers, fresh and dry biomass, shoot and root length of the above selected crops. Notable alterations were observed in physiological and biochemical indicators; such as proline content, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b. Proline levels increased, suggesting the presence of stress. Barley exhibited greater tolerance compared to bean and maize, which was identified as the most sensitive species among those studied. Increased extract content (15g) and soaking duration of bark and leaves of A. lebbeck resulted in more pronounced phytotoxic effects. Increased concentrations and extended soaking durations significantly influenced germination and seedling growth more than decreased concentrations and shorter soaking times. However, leaf extracts demonstrated a significant reduction in growth across all examined parameters when compared to bark extracts. In conclusion, A. lebbeck demonstrates significant phytotoxic effects that are influenced by dosage, duration, and the specific plant part, impacting the physiological traits, growth performance, and seed germination of key agricultural crops.