Abstract:Flowering characteristics and pollination ecology of Tamarix chinensis were investigated in the Nature Reserve of Yellow River Delta in Shandong Province. The flowering phase and dynamics, insect visitors and their behavior and visiting frequency were observed, and the breeding system, pollen-ovule ratio （P/O） and pollen viability were determined. The results showed that T. chinensis was self-compatible requiring pollinators. Syrphid flies （Syrphus） were the most common visitors. The duration of single flower of this plant lasted only one day, the P/O was 390.9±81.0. The fruits matured within 15 days. In natural condition, the fruit setting rate reached 95.23%. The population had a flowering period of several months （from May to September）, which produced a large amount of seeds that would germinate and form a large area of Tamarix shrub.
