Performance of Iris variegata genotypes in different light conditions: Flowering phenology and reproductive output

Abstract

We analyzed genetic variability and phenotypic plasticity of flowering pattern and reproductive success in 97 clonal genotypes of Iris variegata originating from contrasting light habitats in Deliblato Sands and expressed under different experimental light conditions. Rhizome segments were taken from each of these clones and transplanted in the experimental garden near the Institute for Biological Research in Belgrade. Significant differences between genotypes were found for two traits (start of flowering, average flowering time). Genotypes originating from open and understory habitats significantly differed for three traits (number of flowers, number of capsules/number of flowers, seed mass/capsule). Significant effect of light treatment were found for three traits (number of capsules/number of flowers, seed mass/capsule, average seed mass). Statistically significant correlations between explored traits were generally similar but also to some extent habitat and treatment specific. Comparing these results with research carried out on congeneric species we noted that there are similar responses for some traits, but also significant differences in some components of flowering and fruiting success.