Alexandrite is a variety of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) grown in the dry-steppe and semi-desert zones. The plant reaches a medium height, and during flowering, its petals turn from orange to red shades due to pigments carthamin and carthamidin, which are used as natural dyes in the food and textile industries.
The variety is characterized by high drought and heat resistance, allowing it to thrive even with limited access to water. The vegetative period is 92 days, and seed yield reaches 13.0 c/ha. Seeds contain about 27.3% fat and 15.5% protein, making them a valuable raw material for oil and food production.
Alexandrite is suitable for mechanized harvesting and processing due to its medium seed coat percentage (50%). Its high oleic acid content ensures high-quality oil, and its resistance to extreme climatic conditions reduces the need for protective measures, improving the ecological situation on cultivation sites.
