A Graptopetalum bellum selection with improved flower characteristics

Abstract A seedling of Graptopetalum bellum (Moran & Meyran) D. Hunt exhibiting improved flower characteristics with large flowers and with no space between the petals was evaluated. The wider petals of selected Graptopetalum (Gb-sel) (1.13 cm), compared with 0.91 cm of the original Graptopetalum (Gb-ori) is considered one of the improvements. The major color at the tip of the petal in both Gb-ori and Gb-sel were 58 (A, B, C) and 55A with some in 61 (D) and 62, 63, and 67 that belong to red-purple color group for Gb-sel that belong to red color group was selected. These improved characteristics were also observed following leaf cutting propagation. Three inflorescences with high flowering percentage of Graptopetalum bellum was produced forcing at 17/15 °C. The number of days to anthesis and florets per inflorescence did not differ between the original (Gb-ori) and the selected plant (Gb-sel). Measurements of pollen grains and seeds from scanning electron micrographs revealed that ratios of the width to the length were greater in Gb-sel than those of Gb-ori. Based on the floral morphology and color in petals and carpel, Gb-sel is considered different from Gb-ori.