Performance of 16 Stevia rebaudiana seed cultigens for glycosides and yield in North Carolina

Currently, stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) seeds are available to growers from many sources, but the origin of these populations is often unknown. Since a natural outcrosser, heterozygous and heterogeneous. We were interested characterize germplasm 16 sources for traits including yield, glycosides, plant morphology, then identify trait correlations. The cultigens evaluated obtained garden seed companies commercial trials conducted two years at field locations. To quantify morphological traits, objective measurements collected intervals determine stem height, branching width, leaf area. In addition, we screened lodging disease resistance, yield before flowering stage. tested highly variable steviol suggesting that diverse genetic base found among population which readily breeders. High-yielding biomass glycoside concentration identified. Cultigens with highest stability over seed-derived progeny ‘Katupyry’, sourced Stevia Store, represent genetics useful in breeding increased biomass. level NC-1003 NC-1022, grown Seed Savers, could be used improve desirable glycosides. This study highlights can develop elite populations.