Breeding report of a new ornamental peach cultivar Linglonghong

Abstract: Linglonghong (Prunus persica) is a new ornamental peach cultivar derived from a cross between Yanhongzaohua and Hongshouxing made in 2015. It was initially selected in 2017 for its bright colors and early flowering. The flowers were red and of high ornamental value. Then it was propagated by grafting for further investigation. After regional adaptability testing at three sites (including Xuchan, Zhengzhou and Luoyang), it was finally selected in 2023. The tree posture was dwarf, with a semi open crown and straight branches. The average height of two-year old plants was 50.7 cm, with an average crown width of 34.6 cm × 34.9 cm. The internodes were short, with an average length of 0.9 cm. The flowers usually grew on short branches, with an average of 36 flowers per branch. The number of flower buds were moderate. The flower was plum in shape, with multi petal, with an average diameter of 3.8 cm and an average number of petals of 22. The flower buds were deep red, and the petals were red. The sepals were double and reddish brown. The average number of filaments were 33. The anthers were yellow in color. In Xuchang of Henan Province, the initial flowering time of this individual plant was around March 14th, 8 days earlier than the check variety Shimahongshouxing. The peak flowering period lasted from March 18th to 27th, and the final flowering period was on March 29th. The flowering lasted for about 15 days. The fruit was green with moderate hair. It was resistant to drought, cold and adversity. It would be suitable for planting in the areas with chilling accumulation of 400-550 hours.