Variation in clove (Syzygium aromaticum) germplasm in the moluccan islands

Summary One hundred clove trees from a total of 34 wild and cultivated populations, mainly in the north and central Moluccas, were examined for morphological variation. Data were evaluated using cluster analysis, principal co-ordinates analysis and canonical variates analysis. Considerable morphological variation was evident and was largely attributable to between-population sources. There was more variation among wild cloves than among cultivated populations. Several of the cultivated populations were shown to be morphologically distinct. Flower bud characters were most valuable in distinguishing between populations; leaf and flower bud cluster characters were also useful. Permanent germplasm collections are needed to conserve variation.