The Agromorphological characterization of the perfume rose (Rosa damascena Mill.) Of Kelâa M'gouna-Dades (Morocco).

Abstract

Rosa damascena perfume rose has a considerable place in Morocco. The essential oil, hydrolate (rose water) and dried buds produced in Kalâa Mgouna are intended for export. However, local varieties are not identified. Hence, the objective of our research into the identification of morphological variability by studying 15 qualitative and quantitative characteristics related to leaf, spine and flower at eight localities along the valley of roses. The present study has demonstrated the existence of a great morphological variability within the Kalâa Mgouna’s perfume rose. The characters associated with leaves and spines drive this variability. The PCA analysis identified four morphotypes; the morphotype I whose stems are unarmed, the morphotype II characterized by broad leaves and moderately spiny stems, the morphotype III having stems bearing long spines and whose petals are wider. Finally, the morphotype IV characterized by very thorny stems, leaves of reduced size and whose petals are wider.