Abstract
The breeding systems of 12 species and varieties of Trifolium from Africa were investigated. One annual and the three perennial species were allogamous and self-incompatible, the other annuals were autogamous.
The effect of temperature on pollen germination and growth was variable. In some species high temperatures (30°C) adversely affected pollen germination and low temperatures (20°C) in others. A high humidity (93–98% R.H.) was essential for good pollen germination and growth.
Approach grafts indicated that these species were closely related, however, this method of grafting may not be as reliable as the cleft graft for assessing species relations. From hybridization attempts between seven species, it appears that some interspecific hybrids may be possible within this group.
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Pritchard, A.J., t' Mannetje, L. The breeding systems and some interspecific relations of a number of African Trifolium spp.. Euphytica 16, 324–329 (1967). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00028938
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00028938