Perennial sunflower domestication experiment

Drought tolerance and common garden experimentation on perennial sunflower (Silphium integrifolium). The 12 populations in our common garden experiment are wild Silphium genotypes, each collected from a different prairie in the southern United States. By characterizing the phenotype of these plants over time we can identify genotypes of potential importance that can be re-incorporated back into the breeding program in Kansas. Additionally, we will be able to determine which genotypes are best adapted to our local climate and pest communities.