This is a strongly contrasted Miniature 1YYW-W that measures 43mm in diameter. It is a cross of two sister seedlings that were sown in 1988. The siblings chosen to line breed have the strongest reverse coloration. It has ‘Gipsy Queen’ on both sides of its parentage and reflects GQ’s narrowness of perianth. The depth of color, bright contrast, and rapid reverse have made this a standout even though it is narrow. It has been a super parent both ways.
I would add that I believe that line breeding is a technique that should be in every breeders bag of tricks. It can be indispensable for “setting” characteristics. Inbreeding depression might be a potential drawback but usually is not observed or apparent until one reaches about eight to ten generations of inbreeding. My operational belief is that it is quite safe for three or four generations and, IF inbreeding depression is expressed, it can be “cured” with one outcross. It think that this cross amply demonstrates the potential usefulness as it applies to Miniature Daffodils.
Highly inbred parent lines are the foundational basis of almost ALL modern flower and vegetable breeding.
Steve
