The Agricultural research council (CRA) is the principal Italian institution devoted to research in agriculture, agro industry, food, fishery, forestry and economy. The ornamental plant research unit (CRA-FSO) is one of the CRA organization. It is located in Sanremo (Liguria, Italy) and is involved in research on ornamental, medicinal, aromatic and biomass species. It operate in the field of genetic and breeding, applied biotechnology, plant protection, propagation and cultivation practices. Special consideration is given to germplasm exploitation and sustainability of cultivation.
Main research line
Diversification of ornamental products : collection and exploitation of Salvia, Rosmarinus, Helichrysum, Viburnum, Hibiscus, Passiflora germplasm; introduction of novel species from South Africa (Lachenalia, Protea, Leucospermum).
Plant breeding : establishment of doubled haploid through androgenesis in Anemone; conventional breeding in Hibiscus, Passiflora, Hippeastrum, Zanthedeschia, Anemone.
Biotechnology: Transcriptome analysis of Anemone/Tranzschelia interaction; functional genomics of asexual reproduction (Kalanchoe spp); molecular detection of pathogens by PCR and isothermal methods (virus diseases); genetic mapping; genotype identification by molecular marker; novel technology to improve propagation efficiency.
Plant biomass exploitation: Transcriptome analysis and functional genomics of Arundo donax.
Secondary metabolites in aromatic plants: tissue culture of Salvia and Rosmarinus; secondary metabolites production.

Country: Italy

Organization Type: Research Centre

Organization Size: 26-50

Phone: +39 0184 694824

Email: andrea.allavena@entecra.it

City: Sanremo (Imperia) ,C.so Inglesi,508 Google map

Areas of Activities