Survey of a Taraxacum kok-saghyz germplasm reveals high variations on plant morphology, shoot regeneration capability, and partial self-incompatibility.

Rubber dandelion Taraxacum kok-saghyz (Tk) has been developed as an alternative crop to diversify natural rubber production. Germplasm utilization and biotechnology are potential approaches to developing commercially viable Tk crops. We surveyed a Tk germplasm (accession W6-35169, plant name KAZ08-014, L. E. Rodin) and found high variations in its plant morphology, in vitro callus and shoot induction, and self-incompatibility. We identified plant #12 which was competent in regenerating shoots and producing selfed seeds. This individual is particularly useful in basic and applied research to improve a Tk crop.