Morphological characterization of 'Oblačinska' sour cherry by multivariate analysis

A wide range of 'Oblačinska' sour cherry germplasm was collected from the most important growing regions in Serbia. Twenty nine variables were recorded in 41 accessions to determine the overall degree of polymorphism and to detect similarities among genotypes. The highest degree of variability was observed in traits related to number and composition of fruiting twigs, fruit set and yield. The majority of significant correlation coefficients were found in the characteristics representing fruit and leaf size. Principal component analysis (PCA) makes the phenotypical diversity determination and separation of similar genotypes possible. Variables with high discriminating values were those related to fruit and leaf size, yield efficiency, blooming time and flowering density. Based on the results from this study, the genotypes XI/3 and II/10 can be recommended for cultivation. The clonal selection and conservation of the highly diverse autochthonous population of sour cherry are also recommended.