Abstract
In case of failure of the traditional methods, somatic hybridization by protoplast fusion between H. annuus L. and H. rigidus could be an alternative way, provided regeneration of at least one of the two fusion partners is achieved. We report here the regeneration of entire plants of a specific accession of Helianthus rigidus USA-NE. The genetic improvement of the cultivated sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) could he obtained by the introgression of genes from some wild sunflower species to improve the oil quality and the resistance to drought and diseases. For example, the wild perennial hexaploid species: Helianthus rigidus is a potential source of resistance to rust (Puccinia Helianthi), downy mildiew (Plasmopara Hastedii), (5) and phomopsis (Diaporthe Helianthi), (9). Interspecific hybridization between II. rigidus and H. annuus L. was previously reported but led to the obtention of sterile hybrids (4).
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