Abstract: The growth of pollen tube and the cytoplasmic particle movements in pollen tube of Aloe zebrina Haw. were recorded by micro-video and measured by computer image analysis. The saltatory growth of pollen tube was observed. The movement velocity, diameter and the rate of flux of forward particles towards pollen tube tip were greater than those of backward particles. The results indicate that the cytoplasmic particle movements may play a role in transporting “building blocks” for pollen tube growth.

Key words: Pollen tube growth, Saltatory growth, Forward and backward particles, Particle velocity