Production and characterization of an interspecific hybrid between leek and garlic

An interspecific hybrid between leek (Allium ampeloprasum L.) and garlic (Allium sativum L.) was produced by hybridization using a fertile garlic clone as a pollen donor and an ovary culture. The hybridity was confirmed by chromosome observation (2n = 3x = 24) and randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. The interspecific hybrid showed a vigorous growth habit, and its foliage was larger than that of the parental species. The bulb of the interspecific hybrid was heavier than that of the parents, containing an intermediate number of cloves. The hybrid could be propagated vegetatively by planting cloves. The odor compounds of garlic, which leek did not have, were detected in the volatiles of the hybrid with a certain concentration. The results of the study suggest the possibility of direct use of an interspecific hybrid between A. ampeloprasum and A. sativum as a new crop.