Classification of a collection of the legume Alysicarpus using morphological and preliminary agronomic attributes

Abstract

A collection of 121 accessions of the legume genus Alysicnrpus was grown out and classified using morphological and agronomic attributes. Nineteen morphological-agronomic groups were identified and matched, where possible, to previous taxonomic classifications. Substantial diversity was found for perenniality, plant habit, flowering and pod maturity dates, seed size, pod shape and pod surface sculpture and for attributes involving dimensions of plant parts. Confusion in previous species naming was also apparent. The value of a broad classification of a large collection of plants as a prelude and aid to subsequent research is highlighted, and the possible agronomic potential of the morphological-agronomic groups also considered.