Variation in seed yield and essential oil composition of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)

Variations in seed yield and essential oil composition of 48 coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) germplasms collected from various geographical locations in India were evaluated. The variation in seed yield plant(-1) (2.52-10.97 g plant(-1)), essential oil content (0.08-0.56%) and linalool content (49.04-82.14%). Linalool, gamma-terpinene, beta-pinene, p-cymene, beta-myrcene, limonene, geraniol, caryophyllene, geranyl acetate, alpha-terpineol, citronellol and caryophyllene were detected in one or other germplasm lines. Cluster analysis was done using Ward's method based on the value of all the traits, resulting in 6 distinct groups of germplasms. Among six clusters, the maximum number of accessions was grouped into cluster II (16). The seed yield plant-1 is positively correlated with the number of umbels plant(-1), number of umbellets plant(-1), number of seeds plant(-1), number of primary and secondary branches. The selection of these traits may result in the identification of germplasm with high seed yield. The genetic diversity revealed in this study could be useful for further crop improvement programs in coriander.