Intergeneric Hybridization in the Juglandaceae: Pterocarya sp. X Juglans regia

Abstract

Intergeneric hybrids between wingnut ( Pterocarya sp.) and walnut ( Juglans regia ) were developed by regenerating plants from somatic embryos produced on immature cotyledons of seed from control-pollinations. Hybridization was confirmed by isozyme analysis using starch gel electrophoresis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of hybrids between wingnut, which has a high level of resistance to Phytophthora spp. and nematodes, and walnut. Wingnut may now be used as a source of germplasm for improving walnut rootstocks.