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Abstract The objective of this work was to determine the base temperature of six lisianthus cultivars, grown at seven planting seasons in the municipality of Capão do Leão, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The following cultivars were evaluated: DBL Echo Blue, Robella 2 Pink, Excalibur White, Excalibur 2 Blue Picotee, DBL Echo Champagne, and Arena III Red. Base temperature was determined from the air temperature data collected daily, in each planting season, fusing the lowest variability and development ratio methods. The base temperature for lisianthus cultivars is between 14.0 and 15.0ºC, by the lowest variability method, and between 13.9 and 15.0ºC by the development ratio method. The highest thermal accumulation was obseerved in the second planting season (from 11/23/2017 to 02/22/2018) for all cultivars, and lower air temperatures during the growing season resulted in longer production cycles. In the seven planting seasons, the highest base temperature is 15.0ºC, obtained for cultivar Arena III Red, and the is 14°C, for all lisianthus cultivars.

Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn. is an annual herbaceous plant native to the southern United States, Mexico, and the Greater Antilles. It has a large flower with a variety of colors and is an important flower crop. In this study, we established a chromosome-scale de novo assembly of E. grandiflorum genome sequences by integrating four genomic and genetic approaches: (1) Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) Sequel deep sequencing, (2) error correction of the assembly by Illumina short reads, (3) scaffolding by chromatin conformation capture sequencing (Hi-C), and (4) genetic linkage maps derived from an F2 mapping population. Thirty-six pseudomolecules and 64 unplaced scaffolds were created, with a total length of 1,324.8 Mb. A total of 36,619 genes were predicted on the genome as high-confidence genes. A comparison of genome structure between E. grandiflorum and C. canephora or O. pumila suggested whole-genome duplication after the divergence between the families Gentianaceae and Rubiaceae. Phylogenetic analysis with single-copy genes suggested that the divergence time between Gentianaceae and Rubiaceae was 74.94 MYA. Genetic diversity analysis was performed for nine commercial E. grandiflorum varieties bred in Japan, from which 254,205 variants were identified. This first report on the construction of a reference genome sequence in the genus Eustoma is expected to contribute to genetic and genomic studies in this genus and in the family Gentianaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relatively mild xerophytic or hardening treatments can induce healthy development of plants. In the present study, as one of xerophytophysiological applications, sub-irrigation was applied to a flower plant of Eustoma grandiflorum to confirm whether the sub-irrigation improved flowering quality in addition to plant growth and physiology. As shown by the results, long-term sub-irrigation induced osmotic adjustment, with osmolyte concentration increasing 32.8 osmol m−3 (p ≤ 0.01), improved leaf photosynthetic activities, with more than 10% (p ≤ 0.05) increase in photosynthetic capacity, and promoted plant growth, with a shoot biomass increase by 27.5% (p ≤ 0.01) and a root increase by 50.5% (p ≤ 0.01). These improvements were attributed to turgor maintenance and cell water re-compartmentation into the symplasm, which were both the consequence of osmotic adjustment. The lower osmotic potential and lower relative leaf water potential at incipient plasmolysis suggested that plants in sub-irrigation plots might be more resistant to environmental stresses. Sub-irrigation also improved flower quality shown by increased anthocyanin concentration (16% up, p ≤ 0.01). Flower quality improvement might be attributed to up-regulation of the PAL gene, which could catalyze the synthesis of anthocyanins. PAL gene up-regulation might be associated with a concentration increase in salicylic acid (SA), which was suggested as a plant hormone for signaling. Sub-irrigation also affected the flower opening and closing oscillations with less changed opening size or oscillation amplitude. We adopted mathematical models and thoroughly analyzed dynamic changes in photosynthesis, plant growth, and flower opening oscillations. In conclusion, sub-irrigation was a feasible practice and could be used in E. grandiflorum culture to improve plant growth and flower opening quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) and Sulfur (S) are nutrients that have a strong uptake interaction. Therefore, the addition of these nutrients in the right ratio has a positive influence in plant development. This work is aiming to assess the effects of the interaction between NH4+ and SO42- at different concentrations, on the growth, physiology, and macronutrient concentration in Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.) cv. Dark Pink ABC 1-2. The trial treatments included three concentrations of NH4+ (0, 2.5 and 5 meq L-1) and two concentrations of SO42- (7 y 10 meq L-1). The different concentrations of SO42- y NH4+ were based on Steiner’s nutrient solution modifications. We used 10-liter black polyethylene containers and perlite substrate with particles size of 0.2-0.5mm in diameter. The results showed that the stem diameter and dry biomass production of roots, stems, flowers, and total biomass were higher with 5 meq L-1 of NH4+ and 7 meq L-1 of SO42-. On the other hand, total leaf dry weight and plant height were higher with 2.5 meq L-1 of NH4+ and 7 meq L-1 of SO42-. The plants showed the same behavior in terms of photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal conductance. We obtained the highest concentration of N and P by applying 2.5 meq L-1 of NH4+ with 10 meq L-1 of SO42. Furthermore, Mg, and S concentrations were higher when we supplied 2.5 meq L-1 of NH4+ with the two concentrations of SO42; while K and Ca were higher when we increased the concentration of NH4+ with 7 meq L-1 of SO42-. We obtained the best growth rate, biomass production and nutrient concentration (K and Ca) in Lisianthus plants with 5 meq L-1 of NH4+/ 7 meq L-1 of SO42-; while physiological activity improved with 2.5 meq L-1 of NH4+ / 7 meq L-1 of SO42- ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El nitrógeno (N) y azufre (S) son nutrimentos que tienen una fuerte interacción en sus vías de asimilación. Por lo tanto, la adición de estos en una adecuada proporción influye positivamente en el desarrollo de las plantas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la interacción de diferentes concentraciones de NH4+ y SO42- en variables de crecimiento, fisiológicas y de concentración de macronutrimentos en las plantas de lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.) cv. ABC 1-2 Rosado Oscuro. Los tratamientos evaluados consistieron en tres concentraciones de NH4+ (0, 2.5 y 5 meq L-1) y dos concentraciones de SO42- (7 y 10 meq L-1). Las diferentes concentraciones de SO42- y NH4+ se diseñaron a partir de modificaciones de la solución nutritiva de Steiner. Se utilizaron contenedores de polietileno negro de 10 L y sustrato perlita con partículas de 0.2-0.5 mm de diámetro. Los resultados mostraron que el diámetro de tallo y la producción de biomasa seca en raíz, tallo, flor y total fueron mayores al suministrar 5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Por otro lado, el peso seco de hoja y altura de planta fue mayor al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Este mismo comportamiento se observó en los parámetros de fotosíntesis, transpiración y conductancia estomática. La mayor concentración de N y P se obtuvo al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 10 meq L-1 de SO42-; asimismo, la concentración de Mg y S fue mayor con 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ en ambas concentraciones de SO42; mientras que K y Ca fue mayor al incrementar la concentración de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. El mejor crecimiento, producción de biomasa y concentración de nutrimentos (K y Ca) de las plantas de lisianthus se obtiene con la proporción 5 meq L-1 de NH4+/ 7 meq L-1 de SO42-; mientras que, la actividad fisiológica es favorecida por la proporción 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ / 7 meq L-1 de SO42-.

Morphotypes of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis, Arum , Paris , and Intermediate types, are mainly determined by host plant lineages. It was reported that the phytohormone gibberellin (GA) inhibits the establishment of Arum -type AM symbiosis in legume plants. In contrast, we previously reported that GA promotes the establishment of Paris -type AM symbiosis in Eustoma grandiflorum , while suppressing Arum -type AM symbiosis in a legume model plant, Lotus japonicus. This raises a hitherto unexplored possibility that GA-mediated transcriptional reprogramming during AM symbiosis is different among plant lineages as the AM morphotypes are distinct. Here, our comparative transcriptomics revealed that several symbiosis-related genes were commonly upregulated upon AM fungal colonization in L. japonicus (Arum -type), Daucus carota (Intermediate-type), and E. grandiflorum (Paris -type). Despite of the similarities, the fungal colonization levels and the expression of symbiosis-related genes were suppressed in L. japonicus and D. carota but were promoted in E. grandiflorum in the presence of GA. Moreover, exogenous GA inhibited the expression of genes involved in biosynthetic process of the pre-symbiotic signal component, strigolactone, which resulted in the reduction of its endogenous accumulation in L. japonicus and E. grandiflorum. Additionally, differential regulation of genes involved in sugar metabolism suggested that disaccharides metabolized in AM roots would be different between L. japonicus and D. carota / E. grandiflorum. Therefore, this study uncovered the conserved transcriptional responses during mycorrhization regardless of the distinct AM morphotype. Meanwhile, we also found diverse responses to GA among phylogenetically distant AM host plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Eustoma grandiflorum; genome assembly; whole-genome triplication event; flower coloration; floral development model EN Eustoma grandiflorum genome assembly whole-genome triplication event flower coloration floral development model 1856 1858 3 09/23/22 20221001 NES 221001 Introduction I Eustoma grandiflorum i (lisianthus) is a Gentianaceae-family ornamental plant. In lisianthus, a total of 120 MADS-box genes were identified, including 27 floral organ identity genes (three A-class genes, nine B-class genes, four C-class genes, one D-class genes and 10 E-class genes; Figures 1d, S26-S28). The genome of Eustoma grandiflorum reveals the whole-genome triplication event contributing to ornamental traits in cultivated lisianthus. [Extracted from the article]

The lisianthus culture is demanded to produce cut flowers and pot vases, grown in a greenhouse using advanced techniques. The present study aimed to evaluate the pigments of different lisianthus cultivars in different photoselective shade nets. The cultivars Flare Deep Rose (pink), Echo Blue BL (purple) and Allemande White BI (white) were cultivated under light-diffusing polyethylene film cover and blue and red color photoselective nets with a shading capacity of 30%, in addition to the control treatment, without the use of the net. The results showed higher values of chlorophyll b and total in the red photoselective net, independent of the cultivar. Leaf colorimetry showed the most intense shade of green was from the cultivar Echo Blue BL. On the other hand, the control showed more intensity, with no significant difference in the leaf green intensity on the blue and red shade nets. In the petals, the cultivar Echo Blue BL showed a more intense blue shade in the red net, however low grade of anthocyanin than in the blue one. In the anthocyanin pigment, this cultivar had lower levels in the treatment of the red net. The results indicate that the use of photoselective shade nets in the culture of lisianthus changes the content of the pigments studied, in varying intensity, depending on the cultivar.

Abstract Background Eustoma grandiflorum is a new floral crop for the international flowers market, moderately cold-tolerant annual or biennial plant. A large number of seedlings can be produced by seed propagation but the quality is not uniform due to variations in the flowering time, plant height, and the number of flowers. Propagation of Eustoma grandiflorum plant by tissue culture technique is relatively low. Inducing mutations is one of the powerful tools for breeding biotechnology. Laser mutagenesis is an easy and new tool. The goal of the present work was to investigate the influence of laser irradiation on in vitro growth, anatomy, flowering, chemicals composition, and gene mutagenesis. Results The most of morphological, floral parameters, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanin pigment contents in the flower recorded increment by most treatments of laser types. The highest survival percentage of acclimatized plants (95%) and highest values of number of branches and branches length (cm) were obtained from treated plantlets by 20 min of green laser, while most of highest floral parameters, anthocyanin pigment contents in flower, and anatomical structural parameters recorded increasing using 20 min of blue laser and 20, 25 min of green and red laser, respectively. Contrary, the lowest values of photosynthetic pigments and carotenoids were obtained from 20 min of green laser. Conclusions The current research concluded that laser irradiation has remarkable effect on plant morphology, flowering, chemical constituents, and gene mutagenesis.

El nitrógeno (N) y azufre (S) son nutrimentos que tienen una fuerte interacción en sus vías de asimilación. Por lo tanto, la adición de estos en una adecuada proporción influye positivamente en el desarrollo de las plantas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la interacción de diferentes concentraciones de NH4+ y SO42- en variables de crecimiento, fisiológicas y de concentración de macronutrimentos en las plantas de lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.) cv. ABC 1-2 Rosado Oscuro. Los tratamientos evaluados consistieron en tres concentraciones de NH4+ (0, 2.5 y 5 meq L-1) y dos concentraciones de SO42- (7 y 10 meq L-1). Las diferentes concentraciones de SO42- y NH4+ se diseñaron a partir de modificaciones de la solución nutritiva de Steiner. Se utilizaron contenedores de polietileno negro de 10 L y sustrato perlita con partículas de 0.2-0.5 mm de diámetro. Los resultados mostraron que el diámetro de tallo y la producción de biomasa seca en raíz, tallo, flor y total fueron mayores al suministrar 5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Por otro lado, el peso seco de hoja y altura de planta fue mayor al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Este mismo comportamiento se observó en los parámetros de fotosíntesis, transpiración y conductancia estomática. La mayor concentración de N y P se obtuvo al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 10 meq L-1 de SO42-; asimismo, la concentración de Mg y S fue mayor con 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ en ambas concentraciones de SO42; mientras que K y Ca fue mayor al incrementar la concentración de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. El mejor crecimiento, producción de biomasa y concentración de nutrimentos (K y Ca) de las plantas de lisianthus se obtiene con la proporción 5 meq L-1 de NH4+/ 7 meq L-1 de SO42-; mientras que, la actividad fisiológica es favorecida por la proporción 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ / 7 meq L-1 de SO42-.

El nitrógeno (N) y azufre (S) son nutrimentos que tienen una fuerte interacción en sus vías de asimilación. Por lo tanto, la adición de estos en una adecuada proporción influye positivamente en el desarrollo de las plantas. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de la interacción de diferentes concentraciones de NH4+ y SO42- en variables de crecimiento, fisiológicas y de concentración de macronutrimentos en las plantas de lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.) cv. ABC 1-2 Rosado Oscuro. Los tratamientos evaluados consistieron en tres concentraciones de NH4+ (0, 2.5 y 5 meq L-1) y dos concentraciones de SO42- (7 y 10 meq L-1). Las diferentes concentraciones de SO42- y NH4+ se diseñaron a partir de modificaciones de la solución nutritiva de Steiner. Se utilizaron contenedores de polietileno negro de 10 L y sustrato perlita con partículas de 0.2-0.5 mm de diámetro. Los resultados mostraron que el diámetro de tallo y la producción de biomasa seca en raíz, tallo, flor y total fueron mayores al suministrar 5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Por otro lado, el peso seco de hoja y altura de planta fue mayor al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. Este mismo comportamiento se observó en los parámetros de fotosíntesis, transpiración y conductancia estomática. La mayor concentración de N y P se obtuvo al emplear 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ con 10 meq L-1 de SO42-; asimismo, la concentración de Mg y S fue mayor con 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ en ambas concentraciones de SO42; mientras que K y Ca fue mayor al incrementar la concentración de NH4+ con 7 meq L-1 de SO42-. El mejor crecimiento, producción de biomasa y concentración de nutrimentos (K y Ca) de las plantas de lisianthus se obtiene con la proporción 5 meq L-1 de NH4+/ 7 meq L-1 de SO42-; mientras que, la actividad fisiológica es favorecida por la proporción 2.5 meq L-1 de NH4+ / 7 meq L-1 de SO42-.

In the aerial plant organs, cuticular wax forms a hydrophobic layer that can protect cells from dehydration, repel pathogen attacks, and prevent organ fusion during development. The MIXTA gene encodes an MYB-like transcription factor, which is associated with epicuticular wax biosynthesis to increase the wax load on the surface of leaves. In this study, the AmMIXTA-homologous gene EgMIXTA1 was functionally characterized in the Eustoma grandiflorum. EgMIXTA1 was ubiquitously, but highly, expressed in leaves and buds. We identified the Eustoma MIXTA homolog and developed the plants for overexpression. EgMIXTA1-overexpressing plants had more wax crystal deposition on the leaf surface compared to wild-type and considerably more overall cuticular wax. In the leaves of the overexpression line, the cuticular transpiration occurred more slowly than in those of non-transgenic plants. Analysis of gene expression indicated that several genes, such as EgCER3, EgCER6, EgCER10, EgKCS1, EgKCR1, and EgCYP77A6, which are known to be involved in wax biosynthesis, were induced by EgMIXTA1-overexpression lines. Expression of another gene, WAX INDUCER1/SHINE1, encoding a transcription factor that stimulates the production of cutin, was also significantly higher in the overexpressors than in wild-type. However, the expression of a lipid-related gene, EgABCG12, did not change relative to the wild-type. These results suggest that EgMIXTA1 is involved in the biosynthesis of cuticular waxes.

Eustoma grandiflorum, commonly known as prairie gentian or Texas bluebells, is among the most popular agriculturally propagated species of cut flowers. Due to its widespread appeal, there is increasing interest in understanding the molecular genetic factors underlying floral development and resistance to abiotic stresses. We analyzed 18 potential reference genes in different organs, at different floral developmental stages and under drought- and salt-stress treatments, for use in RT-qPCR analysis. A total of four analytical tool packages, including geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder were employed to determine the most appropriate reference genes under each treatment condition. The results demonstrate that different reference genes should be used for normalization under different experimental treatments. EgPP and EgPP2A2 were the most stable internal control genes across different organ types, EgPP and Eg18S were the most stable under salt-stress, EgPP and EgACT1 were the most stable across different floral development stages, and EgEF1A and EgTUA were the most stable reference genes under drought-stress. Additional gene expression analyses of EgMIXTA1, EgTOE1, and EgP5CS1 further confirmed the applicability of these reference genes. The results represent a significant contribution to future studies of reference gene selection for the normalization of gene expression in Eustoma grandiflorum.

Flowering induction and control is a limiting factor when commercially producing cut flowers of lisianthus and seed exposure to low temperatures, a physiological event called vernalization, induces the differentiation of vegetative buds to reproductive buds, contributing to a flowering that is uniform and has quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of seed vernalization in three cultivars of lisianthus (Excalibur, Echo and Mariachi) for 12, 24, 36 and 48 days at temperatures of 5, 10 and 15°C, in the production and quality of buds, making this technology feasible to large-scale production. During cultivation it was observed that the lower the temperature and higher the vernalization period, the lower the cycle and the greater the number of plants induced to flowering for all three cultivars, and those are important features in the context of flower production in a commercial scale. The seeds subjected to vernalization originated plants that produce flower stems within the standards required by the market, showing that vernalization was efficient to induce flowering without affecting the quality of the buds. To produce lisianthus as a cut flower of quality, it is recommended seed vernalization of Mariachi and Echo cultivars for 24 days at 5°C and Excalibur for 36 days at 5°C.

Purpose: Nitrogen (N) / potassium (K) nutrient balance has been studied for some ornamental plants, however, available information is limited. Here we investigate the optimum N and K balance and concentration for lisianthus production in soilless medium. Materials and methods: The effect of three N / K balances: 1.43, 2.14 and 4.29, prepared by varying the concentration of N and K, were evaluated in lisianthus grown in soilless medium (volcanic rock). Results: Plants fertigated with a N / K balance of 2.14 exhibited enhanced height and stem dry weight when compared to plants fertigated with a balance of 4.29, and a higher flower buds count and total dry weight than those fertigated with a balance of 1.43 or 4.29. Plants fertigated with a balance of 2.14 exhibited increased dry weight when N was reduced from 15 to 9 meq L−1 and K from 7 to 4.2 meq L−1, suggesting that lisianthus does not require high levels of these nutrients. Although shoot N concentration was not correlated with N concentration in the nutrient solution or balance, increasing N in the shoot was associated with higher P and Mg in the plant tissues. In general, P, Ca, and Mg in plant tissues were unaffected by the external N / K balance, however, the internal P and Mg concentrations were positively correlated with shoot dry weight. Shoot K concentration significantly increased when the N / K balance decreased, which is related to the higher concentrations of external K when the balance decreased. Conclusions: The optimum N / K balance for lisianthus was 2.14. However, there was a concentration effect, as fertigation with solutions containing a N / K balance of 2.14 and an N and K concentration of 9 and 4.2 meq L−1 respectively, resulted in plants with the greatest dry weight.

In the aerial plant organs, cuticular wax forms a hydrophobic layer that can protect cells from dehydration, repel pathogen attacks, and prevent organ fusion during development. The MIXTA gene encodes an MYB-like transcription factor, which is associated with epicuticular wax biosynthesis to increase the wax load on the surface of leaves. In this study, the AmMIXTA -homologous gene EgMIXTA1 was functionally characterized in the Eustoma grandiflorum. EgMIXTA1 was ubiquitously, but highly, expressed in leaves and buds. We identified the Eustoma MIXTA homolog and developed the plants for overexpression. EgMIXTA1-overexpressing plants had more wax crystal deposition on the leaf surface compared to wild-type and considerably more overall cuticular wax. In the leaves of the overexpression line, the cuticular transpiration occurred more slowly than in those of non-transgenic plants. Analysis of gene expression indicated that several genes, such as EgCER3 , EgCER6 , EgCER10 , EgKCS1 , EgKCR1 , and EgCYP77A6 , which are known to be involved in wax biosynthesis, were induced by EgMIXTA1-overexpression lines. Expression of another gene, WAX INDUCER1/SHINE1 , encoding a transcription factor that stimulates the production of cutin, was also significantly higher in the overexpressors than in wild-type. However, the expression of a lipid-related gene, EgABCG12 , did not change relative to the wild-type. These results suggest that EgMIXTA1 is involved in the biosynthesis of cuticular waxes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In lisianthus cultivars, the occurrence of tipburn is known to adversely affect quality and yield. However, information concerning the responses of tipburn incidence to different levels of Ca is limited. In addition, only a few studies have investigated the effect of potassium (K) concentration on Ca acquisition and distribution in lisianthus. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated tipburn incidence in three lisianthus cultivars (Umi honoka (UH), Reina white (RW), and Voyage peach (VP)) and the Ca and K concentrations in them under different concentrations of Ca supply (40, 80, and 120 ppm). These cultivars exhibited different responses to different concentrations of Ca supply. Tipburn was not observed in UH. In RW, tipburn incidence and severity significantly decreased with an increase in nutritional Ca concentration, because the Ca concentration in the tips of the top leaves significantly increased with Ca concentration. By contrast, in VP, tipburn incidence under all treatments was 100%, and there was no significant difference in the Ca concentration in the tips of the top leaves among the treatments, but the total Ca concentration significantly increased. VP was the only cultivar that significantly acquired and accumulated more Ca in the roots with an increase in nutritional Ca concentration. Overall, excessive Ca accumulation in the roots under high-Ca conditions inhibits the distribution of Ca to the tips of the top leaves and eventually manifests as tipburn in the cultivar. In addition, our results suggested that the content ratio of K in the nutrient solutions did not prevent Ca acquisition and distribution in lisianthus cultivars and that the K concentration has a negligible effect on the occurrence of tipburn.

Tipburn (calcium (Ca) deficiency disorder) is a major problem in the production of lisianthus cultivars. However, few studies have investigated the influence of different Ca concentrations in nutrient solution on tipburn incidence and Ca acquisition and distribution. Thus, it remains unclear why some cultivars exhibit tipburn under high Ca concentrations. To address this, we used three lisianthus cultivars ‘Azuma-no-Kaori’ (AK), ‘Celeb Wine’ (CW), and ‘Voyage Yellow’ (VY) and compared tipburn incidence and Ca acquisition and distribution under different Ca concentrations in a nutrient solution (low (40 ppm), moderate (80 ppm), and high (120 ppm) Ca). Tipburn severity and incidence in AK and VY significantly decreased with increasing nutritional Ca concentrations; the Ca concentrations in each organ and Ca acquisition competence (RGRCa) increased at higher nutritional Ca concentrations. In contrast, tipburn incidence in CW was 100% for all treatments. In CW, Ca acquisition competence and Ca concentrations in most organs increased with increasing nutritional Ca concentrations, but the Ca concentrations in the tips of the upper leaves did not differ significantly between treatments. Thus, our results suggest that the cause of tipburn under sufficient Ca conditions is an inability of the plant to distribute Ca to the tips of its upper leaves.

A indução e controle do florescimento é fator limitante na produção comercial de flores de corte em lisianthus e ocorre pela exposição das sementes a baixas temperaturas, evento fisiológico denominado vernalização, o qual induz a diferenciação das gemas vegetativas em reprodutivas, contribuindo para uma floração uniforme e de qualidade. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da vernalização de sementes de três variedades de lisianthus (Excalibur, Echo e Mariachi), por 12, 24, 36 e 48 dias, a temperaturas 5, 10 e 15 ° C, na produção e qualidade das hastes florais e disponibilizar esta tecnologia ao sistema produtivo. Ao longo do cultivo observou-se que quanto menor a temperatura e maior o período de vernalização, menor foi o ciclo e maior foi o número de plantas induzidas ao florescimento, para as três cultivares, características importantes no contexto da produção de flores em escala comercial. As sementes submetidas à vernalização originaram plantas que produziram hastes florais dentro dos padrões exigidos pelo mercado, mostrando que a vernalização foi eficiente no sentido de indução das plantas ao florescimento sem afetar a qualidade das hastes florais. Para o cultivo de plantas de lisianthus como flor de corte de qualidade recomenda-se vernalizar as sementes das cultivares Mariachi e Echo por 24 dias a 5 °C e da Excalibur por 36 dias a 5 °C.

Floriculture industry demands for products with high quality and durability; however, there is a lack of studies related to the postharvest physiology of cut flowers. We aimed to study phenolic contents of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) stems treated with ethylene inhibitors (1-Methylcyclopropene - 1-MCP and Salicylic Acid - SA) and different storage temperatures (room at 24 ± 2 °C and pre-exposure to the cold chamber at 9 ± 2 °C for 24 hours) during the post-harvest. Total soluble carbohydrate contents decreased during the experimentation, characterizing the consumption of the reserves during lisianthus post-harvest. The 1-MCP treatment slowed the decrease of total soluble carbohydrate contents. SA treatment had the lowest total soluble carbohydrate contents in both storage temperatures

Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinners is a popular cut flower due to its beautiful morphological characteristics and extended vase life. Here, the complete plastome sequence of E. grandiflorum was reported based on the Illumina HiSeq Platform. The plastome sequence is 154,230 bp in length with a typical quadripartite structure, containing a pair of inverted repeated (IR) regions (25,755 bp) that are separated by a large single copy (LSC) region of 84,297 bp, and a small single copy (SSC) region of 18,423 bp. A total of 130 functional genes were annotated, including 84 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The complete plastome sequence of E. grandiflorum will provide a valuable resource for its garden utilization and the phylogenetic studies of Gentianaceae.

Summary: The adaptation of the Agrobacterium‐mediated floral‐dipping technique is limited, to date, to a small number of plants. In this paper, we present the efficient transformation of one of the leading plants in the cut flower industry, lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum). This method is approximately 18 months shorter than the known tissue culture‐based transformation. The Excalibur Pink cultivar and two additional breeding lines, X‐1042 and X‐2541, were transformed using three different marker genes (benzyl alcohol acetyltransferase (BEAT) originating from Clarkia breweri, the feedback‐insensitive bacterial gene AroG*, and the empty pART27 vector expressing a kanamycin‐resistance cassette (nptII)). Genomic transformation was successful in all tested cases with transformation efficiency ranked from 0.2 to 2.9%, which is well in the range of results from Arabidopsis studies. Unlike Arabidopsis, in which floral‐dipping transformation was efficient only at a pre‐anthesis stage before ovary sealing, lisianthus flowers were transformed when dipping occurred 4 days pre‐anthesis or 3−5 days post‐anthesis with 1.5 and 3.7% efficiencies, respectively. Post‐anthesis transformation occurred when the flower ovaries were sealed. Flower dipping of Excalibur Pink flowers with fluorescent Agrobacterium containing a GFP marker gene demonstrated Agrobacterium entrance into the sealed flower ovary through the open stigma and style tube. In this study, we demonstrated floral‐dipping transformation of a commercial plant, lisianthus Excalibur Pink, occurring after sealing of the ovaries, probably via the stigma and wide open style tunnel. Significance Statement: Here we present successful Agrobacterium‐mediated genetic transformation of lisianthus via flower‐dipping. A unique finding of this study, is that successful transformation was achieved post‐anthesis, when lisianthus flower ovules are completely sealed, in contrast to the findings in Arabidopsis, suggesting possible entrance of the Agrobacterium through the flower style tube. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

O diagnóstico nutricional é fundamental para determinar as exigências das plantas quanto aos nutrientes, de forma a se proceder a um manejo adequado, de acordo com a espécie. Assim, para determinar as concentrações e conteúdos nutricionais adequados à produção e qualidade de plantas de lisianto em cultivo hidropônico, instalou-se um experimento onde as plantas foram cultivadas em sistema NFT, em diferentes soluções nutritivas. O experimento foi conduzido, segundo delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 4x3, totalizando 12 tratamentos, com três repetições. Ostratamentos foram compostos de quatro cultivares (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow e Ávila Blue Rim) e três soluções nutritivas (Teste, Steiner modificada e Barbosa). Foram avaliadas as concentrações e os conteúdos dos nutrientes nas folhas e conteúdos na parte aérea das plantas. As plantas cultivadas nas soluções Barbosa eTeste apresentaram resultados satisfatórios quanto às concentrações e aos conteúdos de nutrientes, enquanto a solução Steiner modificada produziu plantas com limitações nutricionais.The nutritional diagnosis is fundamental for determining plantnutrients, in order to correctly manage the nutritional requirements for each species. Thus, in order to determine the ideal nutrient amount and concentration for obtaining the best yield and quality of lisianthus grown hydroponically, an experiment was conducted inwhich the plants were grown under the NFT system in different nutrient solutions. The experiment was conducted according to a random block design arrangement in a 4x3 factorial scheme, totaling 12 treatments with three repetitions. The treatments werecomprised of four cultivars (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow and Ávila Blue Rim) and three nutrient solutions (Test, modified Steiner and Barbosa). In the leaves, nutrient concentration and content were evaluated; in the aerial parts of the plants,only the content was evaluated. The plants grown in Barbosa solution and in the Test solution had satisfactory results regarding nutrient concentration and amounts, while the modified Steiner solution produced plants with limited nutritional qualities.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características produtivas e comerciais do cultivo de quatro cultivares de lisianto (Eustoma grandiflorum) em três soluções nutritivas em sistema de fluxo laminar de nutrientes (NFT). Utilizou-se o delineamento em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 4x3, com três repetições. Os tratamentos foram compostos de quatro cultivares (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow e Ávila Blue Rim) e três soluções nutritivas (Teste, Steiner modificada e Barbosa). O sistema NFT é uma alternativa viável para o cultivo de lisianto nas soluções Barbosa e Teste. A cultivar Echo Champagne foi superior quanto ao ciclo, período em produção, altura da haste floral, número de folhas, diâmetro de botão e produção de massa fresca e seca, enquanto a cultivar Mariachi Pure White se destacou quanto ao período em produção. A cultivar Ávila Blue Rim apresentou maior período de produção, número de flores e produção de massa de matéria fresca e seca, enquanto a cultivar Balboa Yellow apresentou maior período em produção e diâmetro de botão.The objective of this work was to evaluate yield and commercial traits of lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) flowers growth in nutrient film technique (NFT). The experimental design was in randomized blocks, in factorial scheme (4x3), with three replicates. The treatments were four cultivars (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow and Ávila Blue Rim) and three nutrient solutions (Test, modified Steiner and Barbosa). The NFT system is a feasible alternative for the growth of lisianthus in Barbosa and Test solutions. The cultivar Echo Champagne was superior for cycle, length of production, height of flower stem, number of leaves, diameter of the bud flower and fresh and dry weight production, while the cultivar Mariachi Pure White was superior for length of production. The cultivar Ávila Blue Rim showed good length of production, number of flowers and fresh and dry matter production, while the cultivar Balboa Yellow had long length of production and bud flower diameter.

Romania assists at the present time to an increase of production crops for ornamental plants and as a consequence an increased demand of planting material. Thus, improvements of the current multiplication methods are sought after. Lisianthus russelianus Hook. (Eustoma grandiflorum Grise.) is a relatively new floral crop to the international market, known for beautiful flowers of various colors and for having a long vase life. This study focused on the development of an efficient protocol for rapid regeneration of this species following known basic and applied aspects of lisianthus biotechnology but exploring new potentials. In the course of experiments conducted, for in vitro multiplication there were used nodal segments (1.5 cm) with axillary buds from three F1 hybrids 'Echo Lavender', 'Flamenco White', 'Mirage Pastel Pink' that were inoculated on MS basal medium supplemented with 0.50 mg 1-1 TDZ, 1.0 mg 1-1 BAP and 0.50 mg 1-1 AIA. The results show that the medium with BAP was most effective for obtaining the highest shoots number compared to medium containing TDZ. For rooting induction, two different concentrations of auxin IBA 0.5 mg 1-1 and 1.5 mg 1-1 were used simultaneously on MS basal medium. The highest roots number occurred when using 1.5 mg 1-1 IBA. Both the number of shoots and rooting regeneration were dependent on the cultivar. The highest shoots number was achieved for 'Mirage Pastel Pink' hybrid (6.91) on the medium containing 1.0 mg 1-1 BAP and 0.50 mg 1-1 IAA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a controlled environment, light from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) has been associated with affecting the leaf characteristics of Eustoma. LEDs help plant growth and development, yet little is known about photosynthetic performance and related anatomical features in the early growth stage of Eustoma leaves. In this study, we examined the effects of blue (B), red (R), and white (W) LEDs on the photosynthetic performance of Eustoma leaves, as well as leaf morphology and anatomy including epidermal layer thickness, palisade cells, and stomatal characteristics. Leaves grown under B LEDs were thicker and had a higher chlorophyll content than those grown under the R and W LEDs. Leaves under B LEDs had greater net photosynthetic rates (A), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration rates (E), especially at a higher photon flux density (PPFD), that resulted in a decrease in the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), than leaves under the W and R LEDs. B LEDs resulted in greater abaxial epidermal layer thickness and palisade cell length and width than the R and W LED treatments. The palisade cells also developed a more cylindrical shape in response to the B LEDs. B LED leaves also showed greater guard cell length, breadth, and area, and stomatal density, than W or R LEDs, which may contribute to increased A, gs and E at higher PPFDs.

Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn. is an annual herbaceous plant native to the southern United States, Mexico, and the Greater Antilles. It has a large flower with a variety of colors and is an important flower crop. In this study, we established a chromosome-scale de novo assembly of E. grandiflorum genome sequences by integrating four genomic and genetic approaches: (1) Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) Sequel deep sequencing, (2) error correction of the assembly by Illumina short reads, (3) scaffolding by chromatin conformation capture sequencing (Hi-C), and (4) genetic linkage maps derived from an F2 mapping population. Thirty-six pseudomolecules and 64 unplaced scaffolds were created, with a total length of 1,324.8 Mb. A total of 36,619 genes were predicted on the genome as high-confidence genes. A comparison of genome structure between E. grandiflorum and C. canephora or O. pumila suggested whole-genome duplication after the divergence between the families Gentianaceae and Rubiaceae. Phylogenetic analysis with single-copy genes suggested that the divergence time between Gentianaceae and Rubiaceae was 74.94 MYA. Genetic diversity analysis was performed for nine commercial E. grandiflorum varieties bred in Japan, from which 254,205 variants were identified. This first report on the construction of a reference genome sequence in the genus Eustoma is expected to contribute to genetic and genomic studies in this genus and in the family Gentianaceae., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest associated with this manuscript., (© The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Genetics Society of America.)

Effects of harvest time (morning, noon, or afternoon) on water uptake, fresh weight changes, termination symptoms, leaf relative water content (LRWC), carbohydrate status, and vase life of cut 'ABC Purple' lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum Salisb.), 'Double Eagle' African Gold Coin Series marigold (Tagetes erecta L.), and 'Deep Red' Benary's Giant Series zinnia (Zinnia elegans Jacq.) were studied. For stems of lisianthus harvested and then stored in the dark with the basal ends in water for 2 weeks at 3 ± 1 °C, those harvested at noon (1200 HR to 1300 HR) or in the afternoon (1700 HR to 1800 HR) had longer vase life compared with stems harvested in the morning (0700 HR to 0800 HR). However, stems of lisianthus evaluated without storage had no differences in vase life. Stems of marigold harvested in the afternoon had longer vase life than morning- or noon-harvested stems. Time of harvest had no effect on cut flower longevity of zinnia. However, vase life was considerably shorter for stems of all species when tested after 2 weeks storage compared with freshly harvested stems. Stems of zinnia harvested at noon had lower LRWC than morning- or afternoon-harvested stems. Marigold stems harvested in the afternoon and evaluated without storage had lowest LRWC on Day 7 of vase life. Harvest time or storage did not influence LRWC of lisianthus. Stems of marigold and lisianthus harvested at noon or in the afternoon had higher levels of carbohydrates compared with morning-harvested stems, whereas freshly harvested stems had higher concentrations of glucose and sucrose, which decreased during storage or the vase period. Sucrose concentrations varied more significantly among various tissues than other sugars presumably as a result of translocation during vase life. In summary, carbohydrate status of stems harvested at different times of the day varied greatly and affected postharvest longevity of cut marigold and lisianthus, but not zinnia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

O diagnóstico nutricional é fundamental para determinar as exigências das plantas quanto aos nutrientes, de forma a se proceder a um manejo adequado, de acordo com a espécie. Assim, para determinar as concentrações e conteúdos nutricionais adequados à produção e qualidade de plantas de lisianto em cultivo hidropônico, instalou-se um experimento onde as plantas foram cultivadas em sistema NFT, em diferentes soluções nutritivas. O experimento foi conduzido, segundo delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados, em esquema fatorial 4x3, totalizando 12 tratamentos, com três repetições. Os tratamentos foram compostos de quatro cultivares (Echo Champagne, Mariachi Pure White, Balboa Yellow e Ávila Blue Rim) e três soluções nutritivas (Teste, Steiner modificada e Barbosa). Foram avaliadas as concentrações e os conteúdos dos nutrientes nas folhas e conteúdos na parte aérea das plantas. As plantas cultivadas nas soluções Barbosa e Teste apresentaram resultados satisfatórios quanto às concentrações e aos conteúdos de nutrientes, enquanto a solução Steiner modificada produziu plantas com limitações nutricionais.

Para verificar a eficiência da poda podas na produção e qualidade de flores de plantas de lisianto, experimento foi conduzido em canteiros,sob condições de casa de vegetação. Foi utilizado o delineamento em blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas, tendo-se nas parcelas os tipos de poda (ausência de poda, poda acima do terceiro par de folhas e poda acima do quinto par de folhas) e nas subparcelas, os cultivares (Echo Champagne, avila Blue Rim, Echo Pink e Mariachi Pure White), com quatro repetições. Avaliou-se o ciclo, a altura da haste floral, o número de hastes, folhas e flores, o diâmetro de botão e massas úmida e seca da parte aérea. O cultivar Mariachi Pure White se destacou quanto à altura de haste, número de flores e precocidade, sendo o mais indicado para o cultivo, enquanto o cultivar avila Blue Rim não apresentou produção satisfatória, nas condições deste experimento. As podas acima do terceiro e quinto pares de folhas possibilitaram aumento de 65% no número de caule, de 44,5 e 40% no número de flores, de 32 e 28% na massa fresca da parte aérea, respectivamente, em relação à ausência de poda, recomendando-se a poda acima do quinto par de folhas.

Nos últimos anos, o mercado de flores vem mostrando interesse pelo lisianthus, mas informações técnicas e científicas são escassas sobre a cultura, especialmente em relação ao cultivo e manejo em regiões tropicais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o comportamento de cinco cultivares de lisianthus em diferentes densidades de plantas em vasos de três litros. Foram avaliados os cultivares Echo Champagne, Echo Pink, Mariachi Pure White, Ávila Blue Rim e Balboa Yellow em densidades de três, quatro e cinco plantas por vaso. Os tratamentos foram arranjados em esquema fatorial 5x3, no delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três repetições. A densidade de três plantas por vaso proporcionou maior número de flores e folhas quando comparada às demais densidades. Os cultivares avaliados tiveram bom desempenho e produção, com destaque para Mariachi Pure White, Ávila Blue Rim e Balboa Yellow. A densidade de três plantas por vaso é a mais recomendada para o cultivo de lisianthus.

Eustoma grandiflorum, commonly known as prairie gentian or Texas bluebells, is among the most popular agriculturally propagated species of cut flowers. Due to its widespread appeal, there is increasing interest in understanding the molecular genetic factors underlying floral development and resistance to abiotic stresses. We analyzed 18 potential reference genes in different organs, at different floral developmental stages and under drought- and salt-stress treatments, for use in RT-qPCR analysis. A total of four analytical tool packages, including geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder were employed to determine the most appropriate reference genes under each treatment condition. The results demonstrate that different reference genes should be used for normalization under different experimental treatments. EgPP and EgPP2A2 were the most stable internal control genes across different organ types, EgPP and Eg18S were the most stable under salt-stress, EgPP and EgACT1 were the most stable across different floral development stages, and EgEF1A and EgTUA were the most stable reference genes under drought-stress. Additional gene expression analyses of EgMIXTA1, EgTOE1, and EgP5CS1 further confirmed the applicability of these reference genes. The results represent a significant contribution to future studies of reference gene selection for the normalization of gene expression in Eustoma grandiflorum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on the single flowering plant cultivar lisianthus. Comparison between single- and double-flowering lisianthus; Origin single-flowering lisianthus varieties; Description of flower color; Resistance of lisianthus to heat; Availability in the market.

Presents information on the UF Savannah Blue, a lisianthus cultivar variety bred for heat tolerance, basal branching and bedding. Comparison of the UF Savannah cultivar group with the Maurine and Florida cultivar groups; Percentage rosetted plants' and flowering characteristics if lisianthus cultivars; Description of flower color.

Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinners is a popular cut flower due to its beautiful morphological characteristics and extended vase life. Here, the complete plastome sequence of E. grandiflorum was reported based on the Illumina HiSeq Platform. The plastome sequence is 154,230 bp in length with a typical quadripartite structure, containing a pair of inverted repeated (IR) regions (25,755 bp) that are separated by a large single copy (LSC) region of 84,297 bp, and a small single copy (SSC) region of 18,423 bp. A total of 130 functional genes were annotated, including 84 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The complete plastome sequence of E. grandiflorum will provide a valuable resource for its garden utilization and the phylogenetic studies of Gentianaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lisianthus [Eustomagrandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.] plants were grown in soil infested with increasing densities of Meloidogyne hapla Chitwood, M. incognito (Kofoid & White) Chitwood, or M. javanica (Treub) Chitwood, root-knot nematodes. Compared to tomato plants grown in soil with the same nematode numbers and species, lisianthus had less severe root symptoms, suffered less damage, and resulted in lower nematode multiplication rates. Lisianthus was a better host for M. javanica than for M. incognito, and a poor host for M. hapla. Lisianthus shoot weights were significantly reduced after inoculation with Ma javanica or M. hapla, but not after M. incognito inoculation. The number of flowers produced per lisianthus plant was reduced by all three nematode species. The results show that the root-knot nematode species that are most common in California may cause significant damage in the cut-flower production of lisianthus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The responses of two lisianthus ( Eustoma grandiflorum) inbred lines and their heterotic (in vivo) F hybrid to different levels of benzyladenine (BA) and gibberellic acid (GA) were studied under in vitro conditions. Number of axillary shoots developed (NAS), main shoot length (MSL), total fresh and dry weights, and extent of callus formation were measured. The two parents differed in their response to both hormones by all parameters measured. High-parent heterosis for NAS and MSL proved to be dependent on the specific BA and GA levels. The required BA concentrations for maximum NAS and MSL for the F were higher than those required for either parent; this may be defined as a heterosis in BA-requirement for maximal in vitro response. Adding 0.25 or 1 mg/liter GA to the medium caused a considerable increase in NAS and in dry weight gain only when combined with BA. On the other hand, MSL was increased by GA addition only at 0 or 0.1 mg/liter BA, but not at 0.5 mg/liter BA. Callus formation was greatly encouraged by raising the BA level from 0 to 0.1 or 0.5 mg/liter and by the addition of GA at low BA level. Assumed differences in endogenous BA and GA levels among the genotypes studied seemed to be related to the expression of heterosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]