Propagation of new Tabebuia heptaphylla (lapacho) clones through grafting method: Rootstock Influence

Some selected genotypes of Tabebuia heptaphylla (lapacho) showed difficulties to root in cuttings so different rootstocks for grafting have been investigated. Four different rootstocks were studied (three of them were T. heptaphylla from different origins and one was T. impetiginosa) for two selected clones of T. heptaphylla. This clones showed juvenile flowering and compact shape. One T. heptaphylla variety without juvenile flowering was used as control. Grafting proved to be a valid propagation technique for lapacho clones. During the process it could be observed that the clones were able to keep juvenile flowering habits (flowering at first sprouting cycle) and flower quality. One rootstock (hep. 2) was more suitable for pot plant production as the vegetative growing of its scions was less vigorous than the one shown by the others. It produced 100% and 70-80% flowering plants in clone A and B respectively in two consecutive cycles studied.