Leaves polymorphism and fruit shapes variation of Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz in Hyrcanian forest

Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz as a rare native species in Iran which grows between 70 to 2400 meters high sea level in Guilan province. Sorbus torminalis with yellow autumn color and edible fruit make it as a multipurpose tree for future. The objective of this study was to investigate the morphology type of leaves and fruits shape. Four observation sites were selected in different elevation. The leaves samples were collected at 6 meters height of tree in north and south aspect. Leaves width, leaves length and petiole were measured. Due to scarce fruit, nearly 2 Kg fruit were collected from 6 trees in each site. Fruit shape was distinguished through visual examination of 600 fruits. Length and width of fruit was measured. Obtained results were showed that the Sorbus torminalis revealed high polymorphism in leaves shape. Two distinct Sorbus torminalis fruit type were observed spheroid (apple shape) and ellipsoid (pear shape) rounded. The highest mean value of fruit length was 12.47mm from Gardelehposht site was significantly different with the other studies sites. The highest mean value of fruit width was 9.97mm from Janbehsara site which was highly significant difference with other studies site. This study was the first step in fulfilling the criteria enabling characterization and assessment of variability which facilitate Sorbus torminalis germplasm recognition and exchange.