Genetic variation of Citrus and related genera with ornamental potential

Selection of CTV-tolerant citrus hybrids for ornamental use

“…The morphology of these hybrids and their parentage was characterized using a list of adjusted morphological descrip- The traits considered for classification of the hybrids in different categories for ornamental use followed the method described by Santos et al [8] …”

“…Its crown is ellipsoid and considerably dense, with a large number of small spines ( of spines is not a determinant for use as hedges, their existence along with dense crown are good attributes for this category, mainly for the purpose of protection and/or security [8]. The leaves of this hybrid are green and small (average length of 38 cm and width of 1.5 cm -table II), the fruits are spherical, like those of the female parent, on average measuring 3.8 cm in length and 3.6 cm in diameter, and were judged highly attractive (table III), especially because they are produced in large quantity throughout the year.…”

“…The fruits are also ellipsoid with a neck, and are light yellow when ripe (table III). It also has good decorative potential, indicated in the potted plant, landscaping and ornamental minifruit plant categories This hybrid results from crossing genotypes that have ornamental potential, the 'Galego Inerme Key' lime, which has a dense crown, small fruits and no spines, and Fortunella spp., which has small size and produces small yellowish fruits with smooth peel [8]. The ornamental use of fortunella plants is widespread, especially in Europe [19,20].…”

“…Additionally, because of the beauty and originality of plant shapes, they are increasingly being used for ornamental purposes [6][7][8].…”

“…In this respect, the Citrus Breeding Program of Embrapa Cassava & Fruits (CBP) started developing hybrids for this purpose, based on the genetic variability existing in the Citrus Active Germplasm Bank of Embrapa Cassava & Fruits (CAGB), which contains more than 750 accessions [8], the most diversified in the world in tropical regions. This diversity supports the identification of promising varieties for ornamental uses and the creation of hybrids for this purpose.…”