Selection indices and per se performance of morphologically diverse anthurium genotypes

Abstract

Anthurium (Anthurium andreanun Linden.) is currently being promoted as export oriented cut flower crop. The genus is native of tropical zones of central and south America. It is a tropical plant of great beauty grown for its colourful long lasting flowers and handsome foliage. The warm humid tropical climate of Kerala in South India is congenial for its wide spread cultivation. Basic information on the breeding behaviour of anthurium to improve the existing types and varieties are found wanting. Moreover, selection of genotypes based on suitable index is highly efficient in any breeding programme. Selection index aids the breeder in indirect selection. Hence, the present study was under taken with a view to study the various morphological characters and selection index for the improvement of anthuriums.