Salvia Breed GR

Assessment, improvement and promotion of Greek Salvia species for ornamental use

Scientific coordinator: M. Papafotiou, Prof., Director of Laboratory of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture

Research program summary

The research program SALVIA-BREED-GR concerns the assessment, improvement and promotion of five Greek Salvia species, for use in landscaping and gardening. The Mediterranean Salvia species are suitable for xeriscaping, due to low water and maintenance requirements, as well as their ornamental value.

The project is implemented by the Laboratory of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, of the Agricultural University of Athens and the plant breeding company “KALANTZI CHARA”. The research goals are the recording and evaluation of native populations of five Salvia species, the production, through crossings, and evaluation of new Salvia hybrids, the development of propagation protocols for the species, as well as the produced hybrids and the creation of high quality, innovative products, for ornamental use, adapted to xerothermic conditions, for the Greek and world market.

Co‐financed by the European Regional Development Fund of the European Union and Greek national funds through the Operational Program Competitiveness, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, under the call RESEARCH – CREATE – INNOVATE (project code:Τ1EDK-04923)