Italica — a high-yielding mid-late hybrid sunflower, intended for cultivation in steppe and forest-steppe zones, and recommended for the Central Chernozem region, including Belgorod and Tambov regions. This two-line hybrid is characterized by high productivity and adaptability to dry conditions, ensuring stable yields even under adverse climatic conditions. Plants reach high maturity height, have green leaves without or with weak blistering, and light-yellow disc flowers with medium flowering time. The Italica hybrid exhibits high resistance to seven races of downy mildew (A-G), as well as tolerance to new races of Alternaria and Phomopsis, significantly reducing the risk of yield losses. Oil content in seeds reaches 51%, making this sunflower attractive for linseed oil production. The recommended planting density before harvest is 50,000 plants per hectare in steppe zones and 55,000 in forest-steppe zones, promoting optimal growth and maximum yield. Italica sunflower seeds are treated with the Lumisene agent and packed in bags of 150,000 seeds, ensuring protection against diseases and pests in early growth stages. A distinctive feature of the seeds is strongly expressed marginal and intermarginal stripes, facilitating their identification. Thanks to its combination of high yield, disease resistance, and drought tolerance, the Italica hybrid is a reliable choice for farmers seeking high-quality and stable sunflower yields.
