Classification of the Australian collection of the legume Macrotyloma

Abstract

The existing Australian collection of Macrotyloma africanum (13 accessions), M. axillare (28) and M. daltonii (12) were grown in and adjacent to a glasshouse in two experiments. The objective was to describe and classify the collection on the basis of morphologic and agronomic attributes, and examine the affinities between accessions and provenance. Seven morphologic-agronomic groups were identified, and together with another agronomic group, form the basis for future field evaluation of the species. Unusual accessions were identified. The perennial and annual species each appeared to have different strategies to avoid environmental stress. Consequences for field evaluation are discussed.