WL326GZ
1. WL 326 GZ is a 100-plant synthetic variety resulting from phenotypic recurrent selection for grazing tolerance (persistence) and disease-free roots from a grazing trial near Eatonton, GA. Source material traces to an elite experimental line developed through selection for resistance to Aphanomyces root rot (Race 1). Parental germplasm traces to GH 7551 Trident, Vertus, Vernal and Ranger. Approximate germplasm source contributions are: M. falcata - 11%; Ladak -16%; M. varia -24%; Turkistan -4%; Flemish -40% and Chilean -5%.

2. WL- 326 GZ is adapted to and intended for use in the North Central and East Central regions of the United States. WL 326 GZ has been yield tested in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

3. Flower color of WL- 326 GZ at Syn 2 approximates 99% purple and 1% variegated with a trace of cream. The winter survival of WL- 326 GZ is similar to Dart (Class 3), and the fall dormancy of WL 326 GZ is similar to Legend (Class 4).

4. WL- 326 GZ has high resistance to anthracnose (Race 1), bacterial wilt, Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, Phytophthora root rot and Aphanomyces root rot (Race 1); and resistance to stem nematode, pea aphid and spotted alfalfa aphid. Reaction to blue alfalfa aphid and root-knot nematode has not been adequately tested.

5. Breeder seed (Syn 1) was produced in 1994 on 100 plants under greenhouse isolation at Evansville, WI. 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 3 and 5 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- 326 GZ Experimental Designation: WS 206 Date submitted: November 1997.