Analysis of a High-yielding Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) Cultivar 'Benihoppe' with Focus on Dry Matter Production and Leaf Photosynthetic Rate

This study was conducted to clarify the ecophysiological traits of high-yielding 'Benihoppe' with focus on its dry matter production, plant growth analysis, and leaf photosynthetic rate in comparison with those of 'Toyonoka' and 'Sachinoka'. Total dry matter of 'Benihoppe' was higher than that of 'Toyonoka', while no difference was found between their harvest indices. In 'Benihoppe', the crop growth rate (CGR) and leaf area index (LAI) were higher than those of 'Toyonoka' and 'Sachinoka'. The large LAI of 'Benihoppe' was attributed to its ability to bear larger leaves than other cultivars, while 'Benihoppe' demonstrated a superior net assimilation rate (NAR) to that of 'Toyonoka'. NAR is affected by leaf photosynthetic activity; however, no difference was observed between the leaf photosynthetic rates of 'Benihoppe' and 'Toyonoka'. Petioles in 'Benihoppe' that supported large leaves were longer and upright, and NAR might be affected by their trait, which allow solar radiation to penetrate the plant canopy. Thus, the outstanding CGR in 'Benihoppe' may be a result of the large LAI and upright petioles which allow solar radiation to penetrate the plant canopy.