Abstract
Boldo is a tree or shrub with medicinal properties native to Chile. The leaves contain
alkaloids and essential oils. Variation of total alkaloid concentration, of the alkaloid
boldine, and essential oil components were studied in different populations from northern,
central, and southern parts of its geographic range and in their progenies (half-sib
families). Total alkaloid concentration showed genetic variation between progenies
of the central population but not between populations. Boldine content found in concentrations
of 0.007 to 0.009% did not differ significantly between populations. Principal components
of the essential oil were determined genetically, with highest values for ascaridole
in the population of the north and for p-cymene in the south. Between half-sib families genetic variation was found in the
central and northern populations for these components. The high heritability coefficients
found indicate considerable potential for successful selection of individuals for
these characters.
