1. Beacon is a synthetic variety developed by selecting 233 plants for resistance to Phytophthora root rot and plant vigor from the following germplasm sources: Mecca (43%), UC Cibola (42%), VS 754(7%), Maxidor (4%), and Pierce (4%). Seed was harvested from these plants in bulk during 1992 and 1993 and designated breeder seed (Syn 1). Seed from both years was bulked Breeding method used was mass selection. Original germplasm source contribution was approximately: M. falcata (1%), Ladak (1%), M. varia (3%), Turkistan (15%), African (35%), Flemish (1%), Chilean (11%), Peruvian (3%), Indian (24%), and unknown (6%).
2. Beacon is adapted to and intended for use in the Central Valley of California It has been tested in California and Idaho.
3. Beacon is a very non-dormant cultivar with fall dormancy being most similar to CUF 101. Flower color is approximately 100% purple with less than 1% variegated, white, yellow, or cream.
4. Beacon has high resistance to Fusarium wilt, Phytophthora root rot, pea aphid and blue alfalfa aphid; resistance to spotted alfalfa and root knot nematode; moderate resistance to stem nematode and low resistance to bacterial wilt. Reaction to Verticillium wilt has not been determined.
5. Seed increase is on a limited generation basis with one generation each of breeder and certified generations: two generations of foundation generation may be produced; however, the second generation of foundation generation production requires the consent of the breeder. Breeder (Syn I), foundation (Syn 2 or Syn 3) and certified (Syn 3 or Syn 4) classes will be recognized. Sufficient breeder seed was produced under isolation near Nampa, Idaho during 1992 and 1993 to last the anticipated life of the variety. Seed produced during the two years was bulked and is being maintained under controlled conditions by Forage Genetics. Stands of foundation and certified seed fields are limited to 3 and 6 years respectively.
6. Certified seed of Beacon will be available in 1995.
7. No decision regarding application for Plant Variety Protection has been made.
8. This information may be forwarded to the PVP office.
9. Variety name: Beacon
Experimental designations: FG 9B78
Date NA&MLVRB first accepted this variety: January 1995
Dates previous amendments were accepted: none