Novel Insights into Botanical Seed Production of Xanthosoma spp. in Cuba

Investigating diverse techniques for promoting flowering in Xanthosoma is crucial for managing sexual reproduction, producing authentic botanical seeds, and increasing Xanthosoma’s genetic diversity. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigate the impact of gibberellic acid (GA3) and foliar application of VIUSID® Agro on enhancing flower and seed production in Xanthosoma species. A controlled experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design using four treatments and three replicates. The treatments were a control and three GA3 concentrations of 500, 750, and 1000 mg L−1, all combined with 0.20 mg L−1 of VIUSID® Agro. The findings provide the first overview of the combination of GA3 and VIUSID® Agro on flowering and seed production in various Xanthosoma accessions. The results highlight that combining GA3 (1000 mg L−1) with VIUSID® Agro (0.20 mg L−1) resulted in significant flowering and seed production in all Xanthosoma accessions. This novel insight could be observed in the seed length (ranging from 1.0 to 1.5 mm), seed color (varying from light yellow to strong yellow), seed germination (92%), and seed mass (ranging from 0.60 to 3.10 g). Finally, we make suggestions for future research efforts in the use of GA3 and VIUSID® Agro to enhance the Xanthosoma breeding program.