Characterizing Morphological Properties of Select Populations of Iranian Fiber Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)

In this study, we investigated important morphological traits of select populations of fiber Iranian hemp. The results of the analysis of variance showed significant diversity among the populations. Four of the eight genotypes showed large biomass suitable for use in the fiber industry. Kerman, Sirjan, Dezful, and Arak genotypes had the highest final height and the most prominent stem diameter. These populations also showed late flowering periods along with a short inflorescence length. Our classification study revealed that of the four high-fibrous candidates, three were classified in one group (Kerman, Sirjan, and Dezful), and the fourth one (Arak) was organized in the second group. The relationships among the traits showed a significant positive correlation between some characteristics, such as the final height, the footstalk diameter, and the number of days it takes for the first flower to appear. We also showed that there is a strong correlation between morphological traits and the geographical data of the genotypes. Our findings indicated that high elevation along with the low average annual temperature is suitable for the growth of medicinal cannabis, while warmer weather leads to taller plants with thicker stems andlate blooming periods, which are more relevant to be used in the fiber industry.

Keywords:

Cannabis , Correlation , factor analysis , Morphology , Analysis of Variance