Kasturi tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) is a sun-cured aromatic cultivar prized for its unique flavor and economic potential in premium blends. However, in Indonesia its cultivation constraints come from genetic degradation and susceptibility to various diseases, such as Phytophthora nicotianae, Ralstonia solanacearum, and Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV). This study sought to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant, and quality-consistent Kasturi genotypes through the integration of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS)-based hybridization and recurrent bulk selection. Nine elite genotypes and two check cultivars entailed evaluation during 2020–2022 across three agroecological zones in Jember Regency, Indonesia. The tobacco genotypes Dark CK, Dark BK, and Dark AK exhibited considerable improvement in cured leaf yield (2.037 t ha-1), cured leaf quality index (78.90), and crop index (151.68). Most tobacco genotypes enunciated remarkable resistance to P. nicotianae and R. solanacearum, though CMV susceptibility remains a challenge. Stability analysis identified four genotypes with consistent performance through genotype-by-environment interaction across diverse environments. The results provide considerable genetic basis and support for the development of export-oriented Kasturi cultivars and contribute to reducing dependency on tobacco imports in Indonesia.
Kasturi tobacco (N. tabacum L.), recurrent selection, hybridization, genotype-by-environment interaction, disease resistance, cured leaf quality, yield stability
The integration of CMS-based hybridization and recurrent selection successfully produced Kasturi tobacco (N. tabacum L.) genotypes with superior yield, better leaf quality, and disease resistance. Four tobacco genotypes revealed broad environmental adaptability, while one genotype showed specific adaptation. These genetic resources will enhance the productivity and export potential of sun-cured aromatic tobacco.