Morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments and phenolic metabolism in globe artichoke ( Cynara scolymus L.) genotypes

Globe artichoke ( Cynara scolymus L.) is a phenolic-rich vegetable with high nutritional and antioxidant value; however, integrated evaluations of morphological traits, photosynthetic pigments, and phenolic metabolism among local genotypes remain limited. This study compared six genotypes collected from different locations in the Marmara Region of Turkey and grown under uniform environmental conditions. Yield-related traits, photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoids), total phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity were evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) assays, while individual phenolic compounds were identified and quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD). Significant genotypic variation was observed across all parameters. Head weight ranged from 223.19 to 327.65 g, with the highest value recorded in Hamitler. Bilecik exhibited the highest chlorophyll a and total chlorophyll content, whereas Pamukova showed the highest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Chlorogenic acid was identified as the predominant phenolic compound. Principal component analysis revealed clear genotype separation mainly driven by phenolic composition and antioxidant activity. These findings demonstrate substantial physiological and biochemical diversity among globe artichoke genotypes and highlight promising materials for breeding programmes aimed at improving both yield and functional quality.