Development of a hybrid variety system in marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) - Characterization of the pollinator populations

20 accessions of marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) were characterized in two field experiments in Quedlinburg, Germany in 1997. The variation was assess ed both on single plants as a base for the development of pollinator inbred lines of a prospective hybrid variety system and also on plots on a larger scale. The characterization comprised yield of leaf-flower fraction, conte nt of essential oil and its proportion of cis-sabinene hydrate. The anther status of the regrowth after the herb harvest was used as an indicator of m ale fertility. The investigations revealed a high variability between and w ithin accessions. The correlation of some traits is discussed as a clue to indirect selection. The yield rises with increasing bush diameter of the si ngle plants and with longer vegetation periods caused by late flowering. Re lations between the essential oil content and the duration of the vegetatio n period were not consistent and could be caused by the environment. There were no relations between the anther status and agronomical or physiologica l traits.