The study of three populations of Zataria multiflora using agronomical and phytochemical traits in Isfahan

Zataria multiflora is very valuable economically and its components are used in Pharmaceutical industries. Since a little research has been done on this plant, therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the reaction of plant populations collected from different habitats to cultivation in one place.

The experiment was conducted during 2017-2019 in Fozveh station Isfahan. The experiment was on the basis of randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Treatments were 3 populations of Zataria multiflora including Baghbahadoran, Fooladshahr and Shahreza.

The studied populations were significantly different in many studied traits. Baghbahadoran population had the highest seed yield, essential oil and shoot dry yield with average (3.3, 60.2 and 1764 kg/ha). Years had a significant effect on aerial dry matter yield, seed yield and essential oil percentage. Interactive effect of genotype×year revealed that Baghbahadoran population had the highest seed and aerial dry yield in the second year that did not have significant difference with Shahreza. 19 components were found in populations oil. Carvacrole observed as the main essential oil component. Its rate was variable from 31.2% to 61% during two years.

The studied populations had the sufficient genetic diversity for various traits such as shoot yield, seed yield and essential oil percentage. The existence of this diversity can pave the way for remedial work in the future. This plant can also be introduced as an appropriate source to provide a combination of Carvacrole used in food and pharmaceutical industries.