Evaluation of morphological diversity and root dry extract content of different Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) ecotypes collected from five provinces in Iran

This study aimed to evaluates the morphological characteristics of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) samples, collected from 12 regions located in 5 provinces including Khorasane razavi, North Khorasan, Kermanshah, Fars and Golestan. The effects of root sizes (less than 1 and 1 to 2 cm) on dry matter and water soluble extract contents in collected samples were examined. The Maceration method was used to determine roots dry extracts. The residue of dry matter percent of each sample as an indicator of water soluble extract content were then calculated. Statistical analysis of the data was conducted using a completely randomized design. Morphological characteristics of samples collected from various areas varied significantly (p<0.01). Licorice roots dry weight of collected samples (42.07-49.93%) didnt vary significantly in two diameters (p>0.05), but the differences of water soluble extracts for the two root sizes were significant (p<0.01). The highest percent of water soluble extracts was recorded in Doshman ziari (20.25%) and Araghi mahale (19%) samples. The correlation coefficients did not show significant relationship between morphological characteristics and dry matter weight and water soluble extracts (p>0.05), but the water soluble extract contents of collected samples were affected by climatic and edaphic conditions of these areas. The collected samples were then classified into four groups using cluster analysis of samples based on their morphological characteristics. This classification can be interpreted by the genetic and environmental variation of plants and areas. According to the results, Doshman ziari, Araghi mahale, Koh sorkh and Deh sorkh were the most appropriate areas in terms of dry matter percent and water soluble extracts of Licorice samples. These areas had the best ecotypes and their samples can be tested in the plant domestication studies.