1. WL 232 HQ is a 137-plant synthetic variety resulting from phenotypic recurrent selection for high relative feed value (using NIRS and wet chemistry techniques). Source material traces to four elite breeding lines selected for resistance to Phytophthora root rot. Parental germplasm traces to DK 122, ALPHA 2001, WL 252 HQ, Vernal, and Ovation. Approximate germplasm source contributions are M. falcata – 16%, Ladak – 19%, M. varia – 27%, Turkistan – 6%; and Flemish – 32%.

3. Flower color of WL 232 HQ at Syn 2 approximates 100% purple with traces of cream, variegated and white. The fall dormancy of WL 232 HQ is similar to Vernal (Class 2).

4. WL 232 HQ has high resistance to anthracnose (Race 1), bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, Phytophthora root rot, and Aphanomyces root rot (Race 1); resistance to pea aphid, spotted alfalfa aphid and stem nematode; and low resistance to northern root-knot nematode. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid has not been adequately tested.

5. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced in 1994 on 137 plants under cage isolation at Bakersfield, CA. Sufficient foundation seed for the expected life of the variety will be maintained by W-L Research. One generation of Breeder (Syn 1) and two generations each of Foundation (Syn 2 or 3) and Certified (Syn 3 or 4) seed are recognized. Foundation seed must be produced above 40 degrees North latitude. The maximum permitted length of stand for Foundation and Certified seed fields are three and five years, respectively Production of Syn 3 Foundation seed requires consent of the breeder.

6. Certified seed will be marketed in 1998.

7. It is undecided whether application will be made for Plant Variety Protection.

8. The information in this application can be turned over to the PVP office.
9. Variety Name: WL 232 HQ
10. Experimental Designation: C131 Date Submitted: November 1997

Date NAVRB first accepted this variety: January 1998

Date this amendment submitted: November 1998