Agronomic performance, oil quality, and biodiesel potential of Cephalaria syriaca L. genotypes in Türkiye

Abstract

T & uuml;rkiyes increasing shortage of edible oil and biodiesel feedstock underscores the need for alternative oilseed crops suited to different ecological conditions. This research investigated 17 promising genotypes and the registered cultivar Karahan of Pelemir (Cephalaria syriaca L.) across three distinct locations during the 2022-2024 growing seasons. Agronomic performance, oil and protein contents, fatty acid composition, and biodiesel quality parameters were assessed. Seed yield varied between 78 and 412 kg & centerdot;da-1, oil content ranged from 20 to 26%, and protein content from 14 to 24%, with significant genotype & times; environment interactions observed. The highest seed and oil yields were recorded in Bolu, where Loc-88 and Karahan showed superior productivity. Stability analysis identified A50, Loc-86, Loc-87, and Karahan as high-yielding and stable genotypes. Biodiesel properties, including iodine and acid values, met international standards, confirming Pelemir's suitability for biofuel production and its potential as a resilient oilseed crop for sustainable agriculture in T & uuml;rkiye.