Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms in Rose and Their Use for Cultivar Identification

Abstract

We have identified cloned rose DNA fragments that detect restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) in rose (Rosa ×hybrida) cultivars. RFLP can be used as genetic markers for identification, certification, and patent protection. By comparing RFLP patterns for each of six probes, we have been able to characterize eight cultivars. These results confirm that RFLP analyses are useful for rose cultivar identification and may provide a means for protecting patent rights to new cultivars.