Variation in Tannin Content of Clonal and Open‐Pollinated Lines of Perennial Lespedeza¹

Abstract

Lespedeza cuneata (Dum. de Cours) G. Don, S a perennial species introduced from eastern Asia, has been found to be well adapted to the soil and climatic conditions of the southern United States. This species contains a considerable amount of tannin, a substance adversely affecting palatability. In order to plan a 'Cooperative investigations between the Division of Forage Crops and Diseases,

Studies of Inheritance in Lespedeza cuneatu Don1

“…Even though tannin content of sericea lespedeza has been found to vary with several environmental factors, sufficient evidence has been obtained to indicate that there are inherent differences present. Stitt ( 6) concluded that enough variation was found in tannin content between sericea clones so that selection from different seed sources could be very effective in isolating clones lower in tannin. Tannin was found to be positively correlated with plant height; and in some cases, negatively correlated with leafiness of the plant.…”

Sericea and other perennial lespedezas for forage and soil conservation /

“…Relatively great variation in leaf tannin between plants of sericea was found by Stitt (31). Since the variations in tannin were too great to be attributed to differences in environmental conditions, the possibilities of developing low tannin strains through breeding appear most promising.…”

Nutrient composition of forage crops : effects of genetic factors and agronomic practices

“…Tannin is a chemical compound in many forages that imparts a bitter taste, reduces intake, and, in high concentrations, lowers digestibility. Stitt (1943) (1964) transferred the incundus gene by hybridization to a white-flowered, white-seeded, anthocyanin-free mutant of bitter blue lupine. The resulting sweet cultivar, 'Blanco', with white seeds and flowers and without anthocyanin in the foliage can be easily identified at any stage of its development.…”