Stability analysis in lilium (Lilium × elegans L.) genotypes for growth, flowering and bulbous traits

Thirty four cultivars of lilium were evaluated in the RBD design with three replications over three years to identify the stable genotypes for growth and flowering traits under open condition. Present study revealed that, thirty cultivars recorded non-significant S²di values for plant height. Among the stable cultivars, cultivar ‘Eyeliner’ (97.29 cm) recorded maximum plant height and regression co-efficient (bi) equal to unity indicating average stability and expected to perform well in all the environments. Genotypes, ‘Best Seller’ (234.89 days) and ‘Salmon Classic’ (236.00 days) showed low mean values for days to flowering which is advantageous for earliness and significant regression around unity with non-significant deviation from regression; hence, these genotypes were stable and predictable. Genotype x Environment interactions in all the genotypes was significant for inflorescence length, suggesting variable performance of genotype under different environments. Genotypes, Ceb Dazzle (6.90), Tresser (3.68) exhibited more number of bulblets formed with unit regression co-efficient (bi<1), hence found to be specifically adapted to unfavourable environments with above average stability. Based on the results of stability analysis in 34 genotypes of lilium, cultivars, Eyeliner, Tresser, Ceb Dazzle, Ercolano, Original Love, pavia and Yellow Tycoon were found stable for plant height, spike length, bud length and flower size and can be recommended for wide environments. Cultivars Best Seller and Salmon Classic found stable for early flowering and adapted to wider environments. Genotypes Ceb Dazzle, Tresser and PKLH-1 found stable for bulb and bulblet production and can be recommended to all the environments.