EN
Ruscus hypoglossum L. (Asparagaceae), a rare and endangered species of the Malé Karpaty Mts. in Slovakia, is an evergreen geophyte having rigid leaves with special bracts developed on them. The flowers are unisexual, and the plant is dioecious. Well-developed stamens and rudimentary pistils in different stages of development occur in male flowers. Remnants of degenerated anthers persist in female flowers, which have two ovules in the ovary. Male plants prevail in local populations; the average ratio of male to female plants is 5:1. Reproduction in Ruscus hypoglossum is generative and vegetative. Fruit (red berry) development lasts from May to October. The seeds are round, 6-8 mm in diameter, and albuminous. The endosperm is helobial, with a haustorial chalazal chamber. The endosperm cell walls in mature seeds are thickened and are composed of reserve cellulose. The mature embryo consists of one elongated cotyledon, a plumule, short hypocotyl and radicle. Seed dormancy lasts one year. Vegetative propagation is accomplished by rhizome fragmentation. The populations should be protected above all against direct destruction, shoot collecting, and grazing by animals, especially deer.