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Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems:...
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Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability

A special issue of Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This special issue belongs to the section "Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 67629

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Rosario Paolo Mauro

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Catania, Via Valdisavoia, 95123 Catania, Italy
Interests: agronomic management in horticulture and floriculture; breeding of horticultural crops; crop physiology; vegetables quality; secondary metabolites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Carlo Nicoletto

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agronomy, Food, Natural Resources, Animals and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, 35020 Legnaro, Italy
Interests: modeling; plant physiology; statistical analysis; genetic diversity; food chemistry; irrigation; plant biology; predictive modeling; plant breeding
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Leo Sabatino

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 5, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: vegetable production; vegetable grafting; soilless cultivation; nutritional and nutraceutical vegetable fruit quality linked to cultivation conditions and practices; biofortification of leafy and fruiting vegetable crops, propagation of ornamental plants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce this Special Issue of Horticulturae, dedicated to the multifaceted topic of neglected and underutilized plant species (NUS) in horticultural and ornamental systems. Over the last few decades, this topic has received growing attention from the scientific community, as a possible option to face the agricultural challenges of producing more foods and services, within a framework of greater sustainability. Indeed, global urbanization processes, climate change, and the reduction of natural resources are expected to emphasize the vulnerability of mainstream agriculture, satisfying the needs of an ever-increasing world population by leveraging a restricted number of cash crops. In this context, NUS could promote agro-biodiversity, improve the resilience of the agro-ecosystems toward environmental stressors, foster the utilization of nutraceuticals and the diversification of dietary patterns, and provide important local services (environmental, economical, socio-cultural) as ornamentals or in landscapes. However, there are still manifold barriers hampering increased NUS utilization out of their niche role, many of which stem from our poor knowledge about their biological and technical features.

For the above reasons, this Special Issue will contribute to filling knowledge gaps about NUS in horticultural and ornamental systems, as well as in landscapes by encouraging the submission of original research papers, short communications, and review articles dealing with their relevance to the following:

  • Biodiversity and conservation
  • Genetics and breeding
  • Characterization, propagation, and ecophysiology
  • Cultivation techniques and systems
  • Landscape protection and restoration
  • Product and process innovations
  • Biochemistry and composition
  • Postharvest factors affecting their end-use quality

Papers concerning neglected or underutilized landraces within major horticultural/ornamental species are welcome too.

Dr. Rosario Paolo Mauro
Dr. Carlo Nicoletto
Dr. Leo Sabatino
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Horticulturae is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

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Editorial

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4 pages, 204 KiB  
Editorial
Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability
by Rosario Paolo Mauro, Carlo Nicoletto and Leo Sabatino
Horticulturae 2022, 8(5), 356; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae8050356 - 20 Apr 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1519
Abstract
Dear Colleagues, [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

12 pages, 1320 KiB  
Article
Root Knot Nematode Presence and Its Integrated Management in Pomegranate Orchards Located in Indian Arid Areas
by Akath Singh, Ramesh Kumar Kaul, Pratapsingh Suresh Khapte, Kuldeep Singh Jadon, Youssef Rouphael, Boris Basile and Pradeep Kumar
Horticulturae 2022, 8(2), 160; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae8020160 - 12 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3099
Abstract
Nematodes are a serious problem across pomegranate-growing areas worldwide, but the severity is higher in light sandy soils of arid regions. The present study was carried out to explore the integrated approaches for the control of nematodes in pomegranate. Three different experiments were [...] Read more.
Nematodes are a serious problem across pomegranate-growing areas worldwide, but the severity is higher in light sandy soils of arid regions. The present study was carried out to explore the integrated approaches for the control of nematodes in pomegranate. Three different experiments were carried out during 2017–2020 to (a) delineate nematode abundance in major pomegranate areas, (b) screen pomegranate genotypes against nematode, and (c) assess the efficacy of integrated management for the control of root knot nematode in pomegranate. The survey results revealed that none of the pomegranate orchards were found to be free from nematode infestation. Moreover, the majority of the orchards (78%) showed moderate incidence (10.1 to 40%) of infestation. A significant yield reduction (40.2%) and a decrease in fruit size was observed in nematode-affected trees. Pattern of cuticular markings in the perineal area of the mature female confirmed the occurrence of Meloidogyne incognita only in all the surveyed orchard of pomegranate. All the evaluated genotypes and varieties were found susceptible to root knot nematodes, but the severity of the attack varied among them. Hence, more detailed screening is needed on a larger population. Nematode population (number of galls g−1 root) can be minimized significantly with the combined applications of Carbofuran at 20 g + Fluensulfone at 20 g per plant or Neemcake 500 g + Paecilomyceslilacinus at 25 mL + Carbofuran at 20 g + Fluensulfone at 20 g per plant in April and August. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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13 pages, 665 KiB  
Article
Effect of Saline-Nutrient Solution on Yield, Quality, and Shelf-Life of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) Plants
by Fabio Amoruso, Angelo Signore, Perla A. Gómez, María del Carmen Martínez-Ballesta, Almudena Giménez, José A. Franco, Juan A. Fernández and Catalina Egea-Gilabert
Horticulturae 2022, 8(2), 127; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae8020127 - 30 Jan 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2903
Abstract
In this study, the effect of salinity (150 mM NaCl) compared to a control (9 mM NaCl) on growth, quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut sea fennel was evaluated. For that, sea fennel plants were cultivated in a hydroponic floating system and the sea [...] Read more.
In this study, the effect of salinity (150 mM NaCl) compared to a control (9 mM NaCl) on growth, quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut sea fennel was evaluated. For that, sea fennel plants were cultivated in a hydroponic floating system and the sea fennel leaves were stored for 12 days at 5 °C. At harvest, leaves from plants grown in salinity had a lower content of NO3−, K+ and Ca2+ and an increased Cl− and Na+ concentration when compared to the control. There was a positive effect in the aerial part with increased fresh weight due to salt stress, but a reduction in the root biomass. During storage, weight loss and colour changes were not significant while leaves’ firmness was higher for control and increased during storage, probably due to lignification. Microbial growth (psychrophiles, yeast and moulds and enterobacteria) was higher at harvest for control and increased during storage, with no differences between treatments after 12 days at 5 °C. Sensory quality was similar for both treatments but leaves from NaCl treatment had a salty taste that was easily detected by panelists. These results show that saline-nutrient solution applied in hydroponics is a suitable system for sea fennel growth. It gives a slightly salty but high-quality product, acceptable as a “ready-to-eat” vegetable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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13 pages, 1609 KiB  
Article
Analysis of Free Sugars, Organic Acids, and Fatty Acids of Wood Apple (Limonia acidissima L.) Fruit Pulp
by Shrinivas Lamani, Konerira Aiyappa Anu-Appaiah, Hosakatte Niranjana Murthy, Yaser Hassan Dewir and Jesamine J. Rikisahedew
Horticulturae 2022, 8(1), 67; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae8010067 - 11 Jan 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4805
Abstract
Wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) is an underutilized, fruit-yielding tree that is native to India and Sri Lanka. Wood apple trees are also cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Kampuchea, Laos, and Indonesia for delicious fruits and medicinal [...] Read more.
Wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) is an underutilized, fruit-yielding tree that is native to India and Sri Lanka. Wood apple trees are also cultivated in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Kampuchea, Laos, and Indonesia for delicious fruits and medicinal purposes. The major objective of the present work was the analysis of the nutritional status of wood apple fruit pulp.The fruits are rich in total carbohydrates (24.74 ± 0.19%), total proteins (9.30 ± 0.16%), oil (0.99 ± 0.01%), fiber (3.32 ± 0.02%), and ash (2.73 ± 0.12%). Further analysis and quantification of free sugars, organic acids, and fatty acid methyl esters were carried out by using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatographic (GC) methods. In total, five sugars and nine organic acids were detected and quantified. The predominant sugars were fructose (16.40 ± 0.23%) and glucose (14.23 ± 0.10%), whereas the predominant organic acids were D-tartaric (4.01 ± 0.03%), ascorbic (4.51 ± 0.05%), and citric acid (4.27 ± 0.04%). The oil content of fruit pulp was 0.99 ± 0.01% and GC-MS analysis revealed that, it comprise of 16 fatty acid methyl esters. The percentage of saturated fatty acids were 32.17 ± 0.35%, that includes palmitic (18.52 ± 0.12%) and stearic acids (9.02 ± 0.08%), whereas, the unsaturated fatty acids were 51.98 ± 0.94%, including oleic acid (23.89 ± 0.06%), α-linolenic acid (16.55 ± 0.26%), linoleic acid (10.02 ± 0.43%), and vaccenic acid (1.78 ± 0.23%). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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15 pages, 3586 KiB  
Article
Seaweed Extract Improves Lagenaria siceraria Young Shoot Production, Mineral Profile and Functional Quality
by Beppe Benedetto Consentino, Leo Sabatino, Rosario Paolo Mauro, Carlo Nicoletto, Claudio De Pasquale, Giovanni Iapichino and Salvatore La Bella
Horticulturae 2021, 7(12), 549; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7120549 - 03 Dec 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2518
Abstract
Vegetable landraces represent the main source of biodiversity in Sicily. Lagenaria siceraria is appreciated by Southern Mediterranean consumers for its immature fruits and young shoots. Plant-based biostimulants supply, such as seaweed extract (SwE), is a contemporary and green agricultural practice applied to ameliorate [...] Read more.
Vegetable landraces represent the main source of biodiversity in Sicily. Lagenaria siceraria is appreciated by Southern Mediterranean consumers for its immature fruits and young shoots. Plant-based biostimulants supply, such as seaweed extract (SwE), is a contemporary and green agricultural practice applied to ameliorate the yield and quality of vegetables. However, there are no studies concerning the effects of SwE on L. siceraria. The current study evaluated the effects of SwE foliar application (0 or 3 mL L−1) on five L. siceraria landraces (G1, G2, G3, G4 and G5) grown in greenhouses. Growth traits, first female flower emission, fruit yield, young shoot yield, fruit firmness, young shoot nitrogen use efficiency (NUEys) and specific young shoot quality parameters, such as soluble solids content (SSC), mineral profile, ascorbic acid, and polyphenols, were appraised. Plant height and number of leaves at 10, 20 and 30 days after transplant (DAT) were significantly higher in plants treated with SwE as compared with untreated plants. Treating plants with SwE increased marketable fruit yield, fruit mean mass, young shoot yield and number of young shoots by 14.4%, 15.0%, 22.2%, 32.4%, and 32.0%, respectively as compared with untreated plants. Relevant increments were also recorded for NUEys, P, K, Ca, Mg, ascorbic acid and polyphenols concentration. SwE application did not significantly affect total yield and SSC. Furthermore, SwE treated plants produced a lower number of marketable fruits than non-treated plants. The present study showed that SwE at 3 mL L−1 can fruitfully enhance crop performance, young shoot yield and quality of L. siceraria. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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15 pages, 2848 KiB  
Article
Inferring the Potential Geographic Distribution and Reasons for the Endangered Status of the Tree Fern, Sphaeropteris lepifera, in Lingnan, China Using a Small Sample Size
by Xueying Wei, AJ Harris, Yuwen Cui, Yangwu Dai, Hanjia Hu, Xiaoling Yu, Rihong Jiang and Faguo Wang
Horticulturae 2021, 7(11), 496; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7110496 - 15 Nov 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3740
Abstract
In this study, we investigated suitable habitats for the endangered tree fern, Sphaeropteris lepifera (J. Sm. ex Hook.) R.M. Tryon, based on fieldwork, ecological niche modeling, and regression approaches. We combined these data with the characterization of spore germination and gametophytic development in [...] Read more.
In this study, we investigated suitable habitats for the endangered tree fern, Sphaeropteris lepifera (J. Sm. ex Hook.) R.M. Tryon, based on fieldwork, ecological niche modeling, and regression approaches. We combined these data with the characterization of spore germination and gametophytic development in the laboratory to assess the reasons why S. lepifera is endangered and to propose a conservation strategy that focuses on suitable sites for reintroduction and accounts for the ecology and biphasic life cycle of the species. Our methods represent an integration of process- and correlation-based approaches to understanding the distributional patterns of this species, and this combined approach, while uncommonly applied, is a more robust strategy than either approach used in isolation. Our ecological niche models indicated that cold temperature extremes, temperature stability over long- and short-terms, and the seasonality of precipitation were among the most important abiotic environmental factors affecting the distribution of S. lepifera among the variables that we measured. Moreover, distribution of this fern species is also strongly influenced by the timing of development of male and female gametes. Additionally, we observed that slope aspect, specifically south-facing slopes, facilitates more incoming sunlight for mature trees, and simultaneously, provides greater, much-needed shade for fiddleheads on account of the canopy being denser. We believe that our study can provide important guidance on the restoration of S. lepifera in the wild. Specifically, potential restoration areas can be screened for the specific environmental factors that we infer to have a critical impact on the survival of the species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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12 pages, 2530 KiB  
Article
Fatty Acid Profile, Tocopherol Content of Seed Oil, and Nutritional Analysis of Seed Cake of Wood Apple (Limonia acidissima L.), an Underutilized Fruit-Yielding Tree Species
by Shrinivas Lamani, Konerira Aiyappa Anu-Appaiah, Hosakatte Niranjana Murthy, Yaser Hassan Dewir and Hail Z. Rihan
Horticulturae 2021, 7(9), 275; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7090275 - 01 Sep 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2995
Abstract
The present study was aimed at analyzing the fatty acid composition, tocopherols, and physico-chemical characterization of wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) seed oil and the nutritional profile of seed cake. The fatty acids in seed oil were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry [...] Read more.
The present study was aimed at analyzing the fatty acid composition, tocopherols, and physico-chemical characterization of wood apple (Limonia acidissima L.) seed oil and the nutritional profile of seed cake. The fatty acids in seed oil were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the total seed oil was 32.02 ± 0.08%, comprising oleic (21.56 ± 0.57%), alpha-linolenic (16.28 ± 0.29%), and linoleic acid (10.02 ± 0.43%), whereas saturated fatty acid content was 33.38 ± 0.60% including palmitic (17.68 ± 0.65%) and stearic acid (14.15 ± 0.27%). A greater amount of unsaturated fatty acids (52.37%) were noticed compared to saturated fatty acids (33.38%); hence the seed is highly suitable for nutritional and industrial applications. Gamma-tocopherol was present in a higher quantity (39.27 ± 0.07 mg/100 g) as compared to alpha (12.64 ± 0.01 mg/100 g) and delta (3.77 ± 0.00 mg/100 g) tocopherols, which are considered as natural antioxidants. The spectrophotometric technique was used for quantitative analysis of total phenolic content, and it revealed 135.42 ± 1.47 mg gallic acid equivalent /100 g DW in seed cake. All the results of the studied seed oil and cake showed a good source of natural functional ingredients for several health benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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12 pages, 5524 KiB  
Article
Ginkgo biloba Seeds—An Environmental Pollutant or a Functional Food
by Teodora Tomova, Iva Slavova, Desislav Tomov, Gergana Kirova and Mariana D. Argirova
Horticulturae 2021, 7(8), 218; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7080218 - 02 Aug 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2847
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba has been cultivated in Bulgaria since the end of the 19th century. Ividual specimens can be seen in almost every park. Females of the tree are considered contaminants of the landscape because their ripe seeds have a strong odor and are [...] Read more.
Ginkgo biloba has been cultivated in Bulgaria since the end of the 19th century. Ividual specimens can be seen in almost every park. Females of the tree are considered contaminants of the landscape because their ripe seeds have a strong odor and are not utilized. We undertook this study to clarify whether ginkgo seeds of local origin can be converted from an unwanted and unused environmental pollutant into a source of beneficial compounds. Various analytical and chromatographic methods were used to quantify the major constituents and ten biologically active compounds in methanol seed extract. The results showed that the seeds are low in proteins (5%) and fats (1%); the seeds were also rich in unsaturated fatty acids and tocopherols. About 44% of nut starch was resistant to in vitro enzymatic hydrolysis. The amount of terpene trilactones in an aqueous-methanol seed extract was significantly higher than the number of flavonoids. Ginkgotoxin and ginkgolic acid were also found. The extract demonstrated weak antimicrobial activity against thirteen microorganisms. This study revealed that seeds of locally grown Ginkgo trees can be used as a source of biologically active substances. The chemical composition show similarity to those of seeds from other geographical areas. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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11 pages, 309 KiB  
Article
Productive and Morphometric Traits, Mineral Composition and Secondary Metabolome Components of Borage and Purslane as Underutilized Species for Microgreens Production
by Giandomenico Corrado, Christophe El-Nakhel, Giulia Graziani, Antonio Pannico, Armando Zarrelli, Paola Giannini, Alberto Ritieni, Stefania De Pascale, Marios C. Kyriacou and Youssef Rouphael
Horticulturae 2021, 7(8), 211; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7080211 - 23 Jul 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 2398
Abstract
Neglected and underutilized species (NUS) offer largely unexplored opportunities for providing nutritious plant food, while making agro-ecosystems more diverse and resilient to climate change. The aim of this work was to explore the potential of two typical Mediterranean underutilized species, purslane and borage, [...] Read more.
Neglected and underutilized species (NUS) offer largely unexplored opportunities for providing nutritious plant food, while making agro-ecosystems more diverse and resilient to climate change. The aim of this work was to explore the potential of two typical Mediterranean underutilized species, purslane and borage, as novel vegetable product (microgreens). Micro-scale production of edible plants is spreading due to the simplicity of their management, rapid cycle, harvest index, and phytochemical value of the edible product. Microgreens, therefore, represent an opportunity to link NUS, nutrition, and agricultural and dietary diversification. By analyzing yield, antioxidants activities, mineral composition, and main phenolic acids and flavonoids, our work indicated that the two species provide interesting results when compared with those reported for crops and horticultural species. Specifically, purslane should be considered highly nutritional due to the amount of phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid, and to potential good β-carotene bioavailability. Borage microgreens have a very high fresh yield and a more composite and balanced phenolic profile. In conclusion, our work provided evidence for implementing new ways to expand the NUS market-chains and for developing added-value food products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
19 pages, 540 KiB  
Article
Impact of Salinity on the Growth and Chemical Composition of Two Underutilized Wild Edible Greens: Taraxacum officinale and Reichardia picroides
by Alexios A. Alexopoulos, Anna Assimakopoulou, Panagiotis Panagopoulos, Maria Bakea, Nikolina Vidalis, Ioannis C. Karapanos and Spyridon A. Petropoulos
Horticulturae 2021, 7(7), 160; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7070160 - 22 Jun 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2416
Abstract
Soil salinization is one of the major environmental factors responsible for limited crop production throughout the world. Therefore, there is urgent need to find tolerant/resistant species to exploit in commercial cultivation systems. In this context, the valorization of wild edible greens for human [...] Read more.
Soil salinization is one of the major environmental factors responsible for limited crop production throughout the world. Therefore, there is urgent need to find tolerant/resistant species to exploit in commercial cultivation systems. In this context, the valorization of wild edible greens for human consumption and/or medicinal purposes is gaining more and more interest. The aim of the present work was to study the effect of salinity, e.g., electrical conductivity: 2 mS cm−1 (nutrient solution EC), 6 mS cm−1 and 10 mS cm−1 on plant growth and chemical composition of Reichardia picroides and Taraxacum officinale plants grown in a floating hydroponic system. The results showed that R. picroides is a moderately salt-tolerant species, as the majority of plant growth parameters determined were not negatively affected under the treatment of 6 mS cm−1. On the other hand, the growth parameters of T. officinale plants were severely affected under the same conditions. Moreover, high salinity levels (EC at 10 mS cm−1) impaired the growth of both species. The content of leaves in chlorophylls (a, b and total), carotenoids+xanthophylls and total soluble solids was not significantly affected by the tested EC levels in both species, whereas the titratable acidity increased under the treatment of 10 mS cm−1. Moreover, R. picroides exhibited a more effective adaptation mechanism against saline conditions than T. officinale, as evidenced by the higher accumulation of osmolytes such as proline and the higher shoot K content, probably through a more efficient K/Na selectivity. In conclusion, both species were severely affected by high salinity; however, R. picroides showed promising results regarding its commercial cultivation under moderate salinity levels, especially in regions where resources of high-quality irrigation water are limited. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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13 pages, 2005 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Salt Stress on Plant Growth, Mineral Composition, and Antioxidant Activity in Tetragonia decumbens Mill.: An Underutilized Edible Halophyte in South Africa
by Avela Sogoni, Muhali Olaide Jimoh, Learnmore Kambizi and Charles Petrus Laubscher
Horticulturae 2021, 7(6), 140; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7060140 - 07 Jun 2021
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6080
Abstract
Climate change, expanding soil salinization, and the developing shortages of freshwater have negatively affected crop production around the world. Seawater and salinized lands represent potentially cultivable areas for edible salt-tolerant plants. In the present study, the effect of salinity stress on plant growth, [...] Read more.
Climate change, expanding soil salinization, and the developing shortages of freshwater have negatively affected crop production around the world. Seawater and salinized lands represent potentially cultivable areas for edible salt-tolerant plants. In the present study, the effect of salinity stress on plant growth, mineral composition (macro-and micro-nutrients), and antioxidant activity in dune spinach (Tetragonia decumbens) were evaluated. The treatments consisted of three salt concentrations, 50, 100, and 200 mM, produced by adding NaCl to the nutrient solution. The control treatment had no NaCl but was sustained and irrigated by the nutrient solution. Results revealed a significant increase in total yield, branch production, and ferric reducing antioxidant power in plants irrigated with nutrient solution incorporated with 50 mM NaCl. Conversely, an increased level of salinity (200 mM) caused a decrease in chlorophyll content (SPAD), while the phenolic content, as well as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sodium, increased. The results of this study indicate that there is potential for brackish water cultivation of dune spinach for consumption, especially in provinces experiencing the adverse effect of drought and salinity, where seawater or underground saline water could be diluted and used as irrigation water in the production of this vegetable. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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18 pages, 2237 KiB  
Article
Genetic Diversity and Population Differentiation of Pinus koraiensis in China
by Xiang Li, Minghui Zhao, Yujin Xu, Yan Li, Mulualem Tigabu and Xiyang Zhao
Horticulturae 2021, 7(5), 104; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7050104 - 09 May 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3306
Abstract
Pinus koraiensis is a well-known precious tree species in East Asia with high economic, ornamental and ecological value. More than fifty percent of the P. koraiensis forests in the world are distributed in northeast China, a region with abundant germplasm resources. However, these [...] Read more.
Pinus koraiensis is a well-known precious tree species in East Asia with high economic, ornamental and ecological value. More than fifty percent of the P. koraiensis forests in the world are distributed in northeast China, a region with abundant germplasm resources. However, these natural P. koraiensis sources are in danger of genetic erosion caused by continuous climate changes, natural disturbances such as wildfire and frequent human activity. Little work has been conducted on the population genetic structure and genetic differentiation of P. koraiensis in China because of the lack of genetic information. In this study, 480 P. koraiensis individuals from 16 natural populations were sampled and genotyped. Fifteen polymorphic expressed sequence tag-simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers were used to evaluate genetic diversity, population structure and differentiation in P. koraiensis. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) of the EST-SSR marker data showed that 33% of the total genetic variation was among populations and 67% was within populations. A high level of genetic diversity was found across the P. koraiensis populations, and the highest levels of genetic diversity were found in HH, ZH, LS and TL populations. Moreover, pairwise Fst values revealed significant genetic differentiation among populations (mean Fst = 0.177). According to the results of the STRUCTURE and Neighbor-joining (NJ) tree analyses and principal component analysis (PCA), the studied geographical populations cluster into two genetic clusters: cluster 1 from Xiaoxinganling Mountains and cluster 2 from Changbaishan Mountains. These results are consistent with the geographical distributions of the populations. The results provide new genetic information for future genome-wide association studies (GWAS), marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS) in natural P. koraiensis breeding programs and can aid the development of conservation and management strategies for this valuable conifer species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

29 pages, 446 KiB  
Review
Underutilized Fruit Crops of Indian Arid and Semi-Arid Regions: Importance, Conservation and Utilization Strategies
by Vijay Singh Meena, Jagan Singh Gora, Akath Singh, Chet Ram, Nirmal Kumar Meena, Pratibha, Youssef Rouphael, Boris Basile and Pradeep Kumar
Horticulturae 2022, 8(2), 171; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae8020171 - 18 Feb 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 10662
Abstract
Nowadays, there is a large demand for nutrient-dense fruits to promote nutritional and metabolic human health. The production of commercial fruit crops is becoming progressively input-dependent to cope with the losses caused by biotic and abiotic stresses. A wide variety of underutilized crops, [...] Read more.
Nowadays, there is a large demand for nutrient-dense fruits to promote nutritional and metabolic human health. The production of commercial fruit crops is becoming progressively input-dependent to cope with the losses caused by biotic and abiotic stresses. A wide variety of underutilized crops, which are neither commercially cultivated nor traded on a large scale, are mainly grown, commercialized and consumed locally. These underutilized fruits have many advantages in terms of ease to grow, hardiness and resilience to climate changes compared to the major commercially grown crops. In addition, they are exceptionally rich in important phytochemicals and have medicinal value. Hence, their consumption may help to meet the nutritional needs of rural populations, such as those living in fragile arid and semi-arid regions around the world. In addition, local people are well aware of the nutritional and medicinal properties of these crops. Therefore, emphasis must be given to the rigorous study of the conservation and the nutritional characterization of these crops so that the future food basket may be widened for enhancing its functional and nutritional values. In this review, we described the ethnobotany, medicinal and nutritional values, biodiversity conservation and utilization strategies of 19 climate-resilient important, underutilized fruit crops of arid and semi-arid regions (Indian jujube, Indian gooseberry, lasora, bael, kair, karonda, tamarind, wood apple, custard apple, jamun, jharber, mahua, pilu, khejri, mulberry, chironji, manila tamarind, timroo, khirni). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
14 pages, 2140 KiB  
Review
Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species (NUS) from the Apulia Region Worthy of Being Rescued and Re-Included in Daily Diet
by Aurelia Scarano, Teodoro Semeraro, Marcello Chieppa and Angelo Santino
Horticulturae 2021, 7(7), 177; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7070177 - 03 Jul 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4101
Abstract
Neglected and underutilized species (NUS) are cultivated, semi-domesticated, or wild plant species, not included in the group of the major staple crops, since, in most cases, they do not meet the global market requirements. As they often represent resilient species and valuable sources [...] Read more.
Neglected and underutilized species (NUS) are cultivated, semi-domesticated, or wild plant species, not included in the group of the major staple crops, since, in most cases, they do not meet the global market requirements. As they often represent resilient species and valuable sources of vitamins, micronutrients, and other phytochemicals, a wider use of NUS would enhance sustainability of agro-systems and a choice of nutritious foods with a strategic role for addressing the nutritional security challenge across Europe. In this review, we focused on some examples of NUS from the Apulia Region (Southern Italy), either cultivated or spontaneously growing species, showing interesting adaptative, nutritional, and economical potential that can be exploited and properly enhanced in future programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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17 pages, 17669 KiB  
Review
Solanum aethiopicum: The Nutrient-Rich Vegetable Crop with Great Economic, Genetic Biodiversity and Pharmaceutical Potential
by Mei Han, Kwadwo N. Opoku, Nana A. B. Bissah and Tao Su
Horticulturae 2021, 7(6), 126; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/horticulturae7060126 - 28 May 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 12166
Abstract
Solanum aethiopicum is a very important vegetable for both rural and urban communities in Africa. The crop is rich in both macro- and micronutrients compared with other vegetables and is suitable for ensuring food and nutritional security. It also possesses several medicinal [...] Read more.
Solanum aethiopicum is a very important vegetable for both rural and urban communities in Africa. The crop is rich in both macro- and micronutrients compared with other vegetables and is suitable for ensuring food and nutritional security. It also possesses several medicinal properties and is currently employed in the treatment of high blood pressure, diabetes, cholera, uterine complaints as well as skin infections in humans. The crop is predominantly cultivated by traditional farmers and plays an important role in the subsistence and economy of poor farmers and consumers throughout the developing world. It also holds potential for dietary diversification, greater genetic biodiversity and sustainable production in Africa. Despite the numerous benefits the crop presents, it remains neglected and underutilized due to the world’s over-dependence on a few plant species, as well as the little attention in research and development it has received over the years. This review highlights the importance of S. aethiopicum, its role in crop diversification, reducing hidden hunger, the potential for nutritive and medicinal benefits, agricultural sustainability and future thrusts for breeding and genetic improvement of the plant species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species in Horticultural and Ornamental Systems: Perspectives for Biodiversity, Nutraceuticals and Agricultural Sustainability)
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