New sesame varieties show resistance to foliar diseases, aiding sustainable farming.
The researchers studied 720 sesame plant varieties to identify unique traits using specific characteristics. They found significant variation in growth, stem, leaf, inflorescence, and capsule features. Most plants had semi-erect growth with sparse hair on stems and basal branching. The majority had lanceolate or linear leaf shapes and green petioles. Flowers typically had sparse hair and beige capsules. Only a small percentage showed signs of bacterial leaf blight or Cercospora leaf spot, indicating some resistance. These distinct traits can help in selecting stable and easily identifiable sesame varieties for future breeding and registration.