BREEDING AND DEVELOPING OF CHILEAN GEOPHYTES

Abstract

Interspecific and intraspecific hybrids of different geophytic plant species from Chile are being made at Cornell University in the United States with the cooperation of two Chilean universities. The goals of this research are (1) to breed novel, commercially valuable plants from natural crosses for the eventual introduction to the commercial market and (2) to develop in vitro and in vivo protocols for the growth and production of these unique plants. Geophytic species such as Rhodophiala, Alstroemeria, Conanthera, Leucocoryne, Zephyra, and others are being used for this research. As new hybrids and cultivars are developed, research is completed to develop production and propagation protocols for them. These novel plants may be used as potted plants, cut flower crops, or herbaceous garden varieties.