Utilization of related wild species (Echinacea purpurea) for genetic enhancement of cultivated sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Helianthus annuus is one of the most important oil species, with a comparatively narrow genetic base. The development of new sunflower cultivars is the focus of many research and breeding programs. Intergeneric hybridization between H. annuus and Echinacea purpurea, a valuable medicinal plant, has not yet been utilized in cultivar development. This paper describes 2 advanced hybrid lines produced from an intergeneric cross between the cultivated sunflower inbred line 6650 and an accession of E. purpurea. The hybrid plants have successfully been grown in the field. The hybrids, showing expression of traits from both parental species, were intermediate between both parents for plant height, leaf shape, leaf color, floral characteristics, tocopherol content, and fatty acid profile. It could be postulated that the hybridization Helianthus x Echinacea offers opportunities for combining desirable traits that increase the variability of cultivated sunflower.