PHENOTYPE OF PETAL SIZE IN PEACH

Classification of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] flowers as large, medium, or small was inconsistent. Petal area and ratio of petal leng th to width were variable over years and locations. Frequency distribu tion of petal size in segregating populations was consistent with a qu antilatively inherited trait and could not be explained by single gene action. We conclude that flower size should not be used asa descripti ve character in peach except in cases where petals are exceptionally l arge or small. The most accurate description is classification into sh owy or non-showy forms.