Determination of Leaf Nutrient Content in Barberry Genotypes Grown in Kayseri Region

Barberry species' flowers, fruits, and leaves are widely consumed due to their rich nutritional content and positive effects on health. This study determined the leaf mineral content levels of Berberis crataegina DC. genotypes collected from Kayseri province in the center of Turkey. The study material consisted of 10 genotypes collected from the Alidağı region of Kayseri province. A total of 13 mineral substances (Al, B, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, P, S, and Zn) were determined in the leaves of the genotypes. The mineral content of leaves differed among genotypes. The most abundant mineral substances in Barberry leaves were determined as Ca (906.32 - 3017.62 mg/kg), Mg (250.75 - 950. 50 mg/kg), K (240.50 - 850.50 mg/kg), P (150.50 -350.00 mg/kg), S (60.30 - 175.75 mg/kg) and Na (40.25 - 95.50 mg/kg). The leaves' lowest mineral substances were Ni (0.20 - 0.05 mg/kg) and Cu (0.85 - 1.95 mg/kg). As a result of the study, it was observed that barberry leaves growing naturally in the region have rich mineral content.