Morpho-quantitative and qualitative traits of Arnica montana L. wild accessions of Trentino, Italy

Eight wild arnica accessions were collected in summer 2010 in Trentino (Italy). The plants were analyzed by a morphological, quantitative and phytochemical point of view to assess their diversity. Univariate (Kruskall–Wallis’ test) and multivariate (PCA and cluster analysis) analysis were performed to estimate differences between accessions. Some accessions resulted more developed as regards the plant height, leaves dimension and flower heads per stem (until to 2.6 on average), but with a lower single flower weight (0.14–0.20 g/d.w.). Large differences emerged in the active principles content determined in the flower heads: sesquiterpene lactones (0.45–1.51%), phenolic acids (1.44–2.88%) and flavonoids (1.04–2.44%). Furthermore different accessions gave interesting results that could be exploited for a future selection work.

► Wild arnica accessions were morphologically and phytochemically analyzed.
► Kruskall–Wallis’ test, PCA and cluster analysis were performed to estimate differences between accessions.
► Some accessions resulted more developed by a morphological point of view.
► Large differences emerged in the active principles content.