Abstract

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is an industrial fiber crop that is being grown increasingly in tropical and subtropical areas. Choosing the proper variety with the most growth rate and biomass content is a critical point for successful commercial cultivation of kenaf. Since growth and biomass production of plants are strictly related to their physiology attribute, it is therefore, necessary to provide knowledge on the physiologic characteristics of kenaf varieties. This study was designated to elucidate water relation characteristics of three kenaf varieties; Guatemala 4 (G4), kohn-kaen 60 (KK60) and V36. 20 plants of each varieties were cultivated in completely randomized design under controled conditions. Throughout a period of 120 days, parameters of gas exchange characteristics were measured within four regular intervals of 30 days. The results of this study showed that varieties significantly differ in water use efficiency so that the greatest value belonged to variety KK60. It was concluded that KK60 could be considered as preferable choice of kenaf variety for cultivation.

Key words: Kenaf, gas exchange, water use efficiency.