Variability and correlations of traits of the flower, leaf and fruit of Malus zumi

Abstract

Malus zumi (Matsum.) Rehder is a carrier of powdery mildew resistance genes and also has ornamental traits. However, the variability of its traits is still poorly understood. The aim of the research is establishing the variability and relationship between the 17 traits of the Malus zumi. It was found that the variability of the traits of the flower and fruit is at a very low level, and the traits of the leaf are more variable. There were found strong correlations between the seeds’ weight and its number in the fruit (r=0.83), the diameter and weight of the fruit (r=0.79), and there is a strong inverse relationship between fruit’s weight and anther’s length (r=-0.73). The length of the filament has a strong relationship with the length of the fruit (r=-0.71) and the leaf’s length (r=-0.71), also it is closely related to all leaf traits with a positive relationship. This information is important for the implementation of directed breeding programs, as well as recommendations for use in ornamental horticulture.