Variety traits

Ploidy — Italian ryegrass

Lolium multiflorum Lam.

Ploidy in Italian ryegrass determines productivity levels and morphological characteristics. Breeding programs distinguish between diploid (2n) and tetraploid (4n) varieties, which differ in seed weight and development intensity.

In the reference 278 varieties crop Italian ryegrass, where this is mentioned in the description.

Two forms of ploidy are key for Italian ryegrass: diploid (2n) and tetraploid (4n) varieties. The main difference between them is observed in seed weight: the 1000-seed weight for tetraploids is 3.7–5.1 g, whereas for diploids this value ranges from 2.5–3.0 g.

Tetraploid forms are often characterized by more vigorous initial seedling growth, higher dry matter yield, and better leafiness. Converting diploid forms to a tetraploid base is a common breeding method used to increase the overall productivity and adaptability of cultivar populations of this crop.

General information about the subject — on the page Ploidy.

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Varieties of Italian ryegrass mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.