Registration of ‘UC Southwest Red’ heirloom‐like red and white mottled bean

Abstract

Abstract‘UC Southwest Red’ (Reg. no. CV‐334, PI 693472) is a line of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) descended from the cross ‘Zuni Gold’/UCD 9634. UC Southwest Red is intended to address the growing demand for heirloom‐type crop cultivars, which have high market value and a reputation for excellent aesthetic and culinary quality. This demand is strongest among smaller scale farmers seeking unique market opportunities. Many of these growers operate in the organic sector and have a particular interest in high‐yield, high‐market‐value N2–fixing legumes. Despite the demand for heirloom‐type cultivars, production of many of these, including the dry bean ‘Anasazi’, is hindered by poor agronomic qualities such as low yields and disease susceptibility. To this end, UC Southwest Red combines an heirloom‐like seed pattern similar to that of Anasazi with resistance to Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) and yields 53% higher than those of the heirloom. Evaluations of flavor and cooked appearance demonstrate that it has comparable culinary quality to Anasazi. All on‐farm evaluations were conducted on certified organic ground. UC Southwest Red will help satisfy a growing consumer interest in heirloom‐like cultivars while maintaining the agronomic qualities demanded for efficient production.