HELICONIA SCARLET: A MEXICAN VARIETY FOR CUT FLOWER AND GARDENING

Abstract

Objective: To carry out the morphological characterization of Heliconia uxpanapensis x Heliconia latispatha var. Scarlet for varietal registration purposes.

Design, Methodology and Approximation:

By means of rhizomes division of 71-1 plant from a plot of H. uxpanapensis x H. latispatha segregant plants (F2), twelve plants (tillers) were generated, planted, and cultivated in open field under 30% of natural shade. Morphological characterization was methodic conducted using the Technical Guide descriptors for Heliconias designed by the National Seed Inspection and Certification Service (SNICS, 2023).

Results: Morphological characters of the clones from the 71-1 segregant plant, tested with the SNICS Technical Guide descriptors, were constant so that a differentiation could be make between the Scarlet and Karely, a reference variety found in the Guide. Scarlet variety’s primary distinctive characteristics are the red color, high brilliance, and the revolute-involute margins of their bracts. Their inflorescence morphological characteristic suggest they can be cultivated for cut flower and gardening. 

Study limitations and implications: In order for Scarlet variety express, their characteristics of intense color and bracts brightness, they have to be cultivated under 30% of shade.

Findings and conclusions: Based on the Technical Guide descriptors for heliconias varietal description (SNICS, 2023), the Scarlet variety differentiates from the Karely (reference variety) as it presents a stability-distinction-homogeneity. For this reason, the varietal registration seems appropriate.