1. AP 8891 is a synthetic variety with 582 parent clones. Parent clones trace to 15 populations selected for resistance to Verticillium wilt, anthracnose, spotted alfalfa aphid and blue alfalfa aphid. Phenotypic recurrent selection was used. Final selections were made from a space-planted nursery near Kingsburg, California. Parentage of AP 8891 traces to U.C. Salton (18%), Ardiente (12%), CUF 101 (8%), Madera (8%), Maricopa (8%), Armona (8%), Condor (8%) and various other non-dormant germplasm (30%). Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata (2%), Ladak (1%), M. varia (7%), Turkistan (25%), Flemish (2%), Chilean (15%), Peruvian (1%), Indian (15%), African (2%) and 30% unknown.
2. AP 8891 is adapted to and is intended for use in central and southern California and lower elevations of Arizona and New Mexico. It has been tested in California.
3. Fall dormancy of AP 8891 is similar to Mesilla. Flower color of Syn 2 generation is approximately 95% purple and 5% variegated, with traces of cream, white and yellow.
4. AP 8891 has high resistance to Fusarium wilt and southern root knot nematode; resistance to Verticillum wilt, Phytophthora root rot and pea aphid; and moderate resistance to blue alfalfa aphid, anthracnose (race 1) and stem nematode. Reaction to bacterial wilt, spotted alfalfa aphid and Aphanomyces (race 1) has not been determined.
5. Seed increase is limited to one generation each of breeder (Syn 1), foundation (Syn 2) and certified (Syn 3) seed classes. Certified seed may be produced from either breeder or foundation classes. A 1-, 3- and 5-year stand life is permitted on fields producing breeder, foundation and certified classes respectively. Foundation seed production, outside of southern adaptation area, is limited to single-season production (non-overwintering). Second year of production may be allowed with inspection and approval by breeder prior to second year of production. Breeder seed was produced in 1988. ABI will maintain sufficient seed stocks for the projected life of the variety.
6. Certified seed will be available in 1993.
7. Plant Variety Protection will not be applied for.
8. This information can be forwarded to the PVP office.