Intra-specific floral variability and possibility of natural hybridization among Passiflora species in Argentina

AMELA GARCÍA, M. T.

Buenos Aires

Congreso; VII International Symposium on New Floricultural Crops; 2011

ISHS (International Society for Horticultural Science)

            Intra-specific flower variation was recorded for several species of Passiflora growing naturally in different habitats of Argentina. Variants in colour, corolla diameter, certain floral parts size relative proportion, among other traits, are described, as well as the association between these features. Detailed characterization is made for common flowers vs. rare flowers. In broad terms, less frequent flowers differ from the more abundant ones in their smaller dimensions, their radii reaching half the length of the petals instead of two thirds or almost the whole length of them (which gives the flower a rather distinct visual pattern) and in the colouration of some floral pieces. Examples of teratology are also mentioned. The variability was observed within plants, but also between plants, either among a single population or amid populations. The production of different floral morphs in other taxa is discussed in the context of obtaining interesting floral characters for plant breeders. Specimens with intermediate characteristics were found in areas of sympatry of two or more species. Based on the floral ecology and chromosome number, the possibility of natural hybridisation between those sympatric species is analysed. The chance of new hybrids formation may be of interest for the numerous enthusiasts of the showy passion vines.