Relationships among twelve genotypes of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) cultivated in western Mexico

The aim of this study was to characterize agromorphological and molecular relationships between twelve genotypes of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) grown in western Mexico. Variables related to crop yield and management at two localities were used for agromorphological characterization. Data were analyzed using principal component analysis. The first four components explained 75.77% of the variation between genotypes. Molecular characterization was conducted using the inverse sequence-tagged repeat marker, which separated the 12 genotypes into two main groups. Three of the genotypes that grouped together at the molecular level had a similar leaf phenotypic characteristic (the number of lobes), which differed from that of the other genotypes. Variation between genotypes was evident in respect of molecular variables, which were used as genetic markers to distinguish between genotypes. Grouping of genotypes according to agromorphological variables, which reflect the response of a genotype to the environment, yielded similar results to molecular grouping. Genetic structure analysis indicated that the China, Fresa, Diamante, and Gigante genotypes probably share a common origin.

► Roselle culture in México has big potential as a multipurpose utilization. Varietal identification is problematic and knowledge on genetic diversity is also limited.
► This work identify genetic variability and assess the different genotypes. We consider the varietal identification, as an important tool to be used for breeding programs.