There is a pressing need for the publication of a comprehensive and up-to-date textbook on breeding ornamental flower crops, in light of the vast amount of research that has been conducted and the accumulated knowledge over the years. This textbook aims to keep readers informed of the latest developments in the field and to provide them with essential information on the cultivar improvement program for 37 ornamental and flower crops.

The opening chapters of the book offer a foundation in the subject, including its history and development, as well as an overview of the global efforts in ornamental plant breeding. The main focus of the book is on the breeding of economically important ornamental and flower crops in tropical, sub-tropical, and temperate regions. Each chapter features a comprehensive bibliography to aid readers in locating further details on the past and recent work done on the crop(s) in question.

To facilitate understanding, certain topics within each chapter are broken down into shorter sub-sections. This book serves as a valuable reference source for flower scientists and educators, and it will also be useful to professionals such as enlightened growers, nurserymen, flower traders, agricultural extension officers, and policy makers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. However, a basic understanding of botany and genetics is recommended to fully appreciate the content.

Part I

1. Introduction

2. Origin of Flower and Ornamental Crops

3. Breeding Systems in Flower and Ornamental Crops

4. History in Breeding Flower and Ornamental Crops

5. International Ornamental Improvement Programmes

6. Intellectual Property Rights and Protection of  Plant Varieties

7. Amaryllis

8. Anthurium

9. Balsam

10. Bougainvillea

11. Calla Lily

12. Carnation

13. China aster

14. Chrysanthemum

15. Cosmos

16. Crossandra

17. Dahlia

18. Gaillardia

19 Geranium

20. Gerbera

21. Gladiolus

22. Globe Amaranth

23. Hibiscus

24. Hollyhock

25. Jasmine

Part-II

26. Lily

27. Lotus

28. Marigold

29. Orchids

30. Pansy

31. Periwinkle

32. Petunia

33. Phlox

34. Pot Marigold

35. Rose

36. Salvia

37. Snapdragon

38. Statice

39. Tuberose

40. Tulip

41. Verbena

42. Water Lily

43. Zinnia