Selection of Bergenia crassifolia specimens based on a complex of decorative characteristics in the flora of Kazakhstan Altai and their introduction in the Altai Botanical Garden

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to select Bergenia crassifolia specimens from different eco-geographical habitats in natural populations of the Kazakhstan Altai based on a complex of decorative characteristics and their introduction testing in the Altai Botanical Garden, creating promising forms for inclusion in the landscaping assortment. The growth of B. crassifolia in the Kazakhstan Altai has been established on the mountain ranges of the Southern and Southwestern Altai in the mountain forest and alpine belts with a vertical distribution threshold of 1100–1800 m above sea level. For introduction, promising samples of B. crassifolia based on economically valuable indicators were selected on the ridges of the Southern and Southwestern Altai. Classical botanical methods were used. Based on the results of the research, a collection of 74 specimens of B. crassifoliа was created in the Altai Botanical Garden, among them 59 decorative specimens with high winter hardiness, a full cycle of seasonal development, responding to weather conditions by changing the duration of the phenological phases of development. Based on the timing of flowering, the samples are classified as spring-early flowering and spring-mid flowering. Based on the results of a comparative assessment, 8 forms were recommended for inclusion in the landscaping assortment with a decorative score of 87–98 points.