Anatomical Studies on Three Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) Cultivars Grown in Hungary

Abstract

Jerusalem Artichoke, a member of the family Asteraceae, is classified as a foodstuff (tubers), animal feed (fodder or silage), and an energy crop for bioethanol production. This crop has several economic and medicinal benefits including the production of inulin, fructose, and proteins. It could be utilized as raw materials for the chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries. The anatomical differences between the three culivars (Alba, Balady and Fuza) were investigated. Balady and Fuza cvs showed the highest main values of the most stem anatomical parameters as well as conductive tissues thickness (xylem and phloem). The highest main values of mesophyll tissue thickness (palaside and spongy tissues) and stomatal distribution were noted in Balady and Alba. The obtained results showed that, Balady cultivar has superiority in the most of stem and leaf anatomical parameters, which may make the Balady cultivar of H. tuberosus more tolerant to abiotic stress conditions. Furteher studies are needed for this important field.