Phenotypic Characterization and Grouping of Rose (Rosa × Hybrida L.) Genotypes Using DUS Descriptors

Abstract

Characterization and evaluation of native germplasm is essential for improvement, protection and conservation. The present investigation was carried out to study the phenotypic diversity of 148 rose (Rosa × hybrida L.) genotypes at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi during two consecutive years (2018-19 and 2019-20). Characteristics (48) were used to identify and group the genotypes. Phenotypic data of genotypes was collected during peak flowering season by following DUS (distinctiveness, uniformity and stability) test guidelines developed by PPV & FRA, India. The DUS characteristic profile was made of the all 148 genotypes using 48 phenological traits. Hierarchical cluster analysis was conducted for the grouping of studied genotypes. A total of eight different clusters were identified in the dendrogram with high characteristic uniformity. Cluster-I is identified with a maximum number of genotypes (109), followed by cluster-III (11), cluster- II and VIII (7 each), cluster-IV &VII (5 each), cluster-V (3) and cluster-VI (1). This information about an existing huge varietal wealth of rose will be useful for researchers, farmers, nursery men to pursue protection for their new material under PPV and FRA, New Delhi.