Unveiling the Superior Provenances of Khejri (Prosopis cineraria) trees in Arid Lands of Western Rajasthan

Abstract The study aimed to assess and identify the superior khejri (Prosopis cineraria) provenance in the western arid drylands through habitat site characterization using GIS mapping, in-situ variability studies, germination and progeny-cum-provenance trial. Eight provenances among the nine identified were selected for in-situ study based on their distinct growth characteristics. The analysis of various morphometric traits revealed significant differences among provenances, emphasizing their genetic variability. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between plant height and both stem girth (r = 0.70*) and crown diameter (r = 0.93**), indicating the importance of considering tree height as a reliable indicator of early growth assessment during provenance selection. Germination (ranging from 75% in Karola (Jalore) to 82% in Lamba (Jodhpur)) also indicated the variable germination potential of these provenances. Subsequently, in progeny-cum-provenance trial, at 5 months after transplanting (MAT), no significant differences in plant height were observed among the provenances. However, at 15 MAT, significant variations in plant height emerged, with Absar (Churu) exhibiting the highest height of 87.22 cm. By 25 MAT, all provenances displayed further increases in plant height, with Bhadriya (Jaisalmer) attaining the greatest height of 181.11 cm. Based on the ranking of growth across the three-time intervals, the study concluded that Absar consistently demonstrated superior growth performance. Thus, Absar can be identified as the most favourable provenance considered for khejri cultivation in the western drylands.