Variety Breeding Studies on Hesperis isatidea (Boİss.) D.A. German & Al-Shehbaz

Abstract

Hesperis isatidea (Boiss.) D.A.German & Al-Shehbaz, a member of the Brassicaceae family, represents a distinctive natural species characterized by its fragrant, conspicuous inflorescences, unique flower coloration, and distinct feather-like foliage. The Turkish name of the species is known as “Allı Gelin”. This species is native, exhibiting resilience to drought conditions and requiring minimal care. Cultivation studies on this species were carried out at Erzincan Horticulture Research Institute (Turkey) with project number 106G022 within the scope of TÜBİTAK (Turkish Scientific and Technological Research Council). The research aimed to determine optimal production techniques through generative and vegetative propagation methods. The project, initiated in 2013 and concluded in 2022, focused on developing a cultivar of the Allı Gelin plant using texel selection breeding techniques. Thirteen populations of Allı Gelin from institute's gene pool were utilized. Employing the Texel Selection method, four distinct lines were identified: compact, tightly spread compact, pyramid1and pyramid-2 shaped. Subsequent baby plant tests revealed stability in the tightly spread compact and pyramid-1 lines, leading to their selection for further breeding. Although breeding efforts continued on the compact line, the pyramid-2 line was discontinued due to an inability to attain the desired stability. The successfully tested variants, namely the pyramid-1 and tightly spread compact forms, have been earmarked as candidates for outdoor ornamental plant varieties. Registration procedures for these candidates are underway. These new varieties promise to enrich diversity within the ornamental plants sector, potentially enhancing competitiveness in foreign markets.