BREEDING PROTEACEAE VARIETIES FOR CHANGING MARKET TRENDS

Abstract

Proteus, a mythological Greek god, could change into numerous animate or inanimate forms. Carl Linnaeus probably had the remarkable variability within the family in mind when he assigned the name Proteaceae, with more than 330 species located only in the Cape Floral Kingdom. As the domestication of Proteaceae became more sophisticated, the needs in the production and marketing chain increased. A breeding program must also adapt to the needs of the consumer, distributor, flower producer and nurseryman. The ornamental value, suitability for transport and vase life is probably the most important traits to look for in a new ornamental cultivar, whether used as a cut flower or potted plant. The breeding of Fynbos for the past three flowering seasons (2005-2007) focused on the genera Protea and Leucadendron. The breeding process involved hand-controlled and natural open pollination. Hybrids were initially selected on aesthetic value. Most promising breeding lines were then evaluated in different climatic regions of South Africa by participatory producers who suggested new cultivars for release with Plant Breeder's Rights (PBR) protection. The breeding program of the Agricultural Research Council (ARC) has released 20 new cultivars since 1998 through a joint evaluation panel. A further three Protea breeding lines has been submitted for PBR registration in South Africa to address new market trends: 'Sugar Baby' (Protea repens x P. mundii/lacticolor hybrid), 'Sharonet' (Protea eximia × P. susannae hybrid) and 'Lady Pearl' (F2-hybrid derived from a P. magnifica with P. burchelli hybrid).