Agromorphological Evaluation of Eight Onion Varieties (Allium cepa) in Northern Côte d'Ivoire

Onion production in Côte d'Ivoire remains insufficient to meet the growing domestic demand. This study aimed to identify high-performing onion varieties based on agromorphological traits, with the goal of enhancing local production. Eight onion varieties were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on agronomic and yield-related traits were collected following standardized protocols. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess statistical significance, and a Hierarchical Ascendant Classification (HAC) was performed to group the varieties based on their morphological characteristics. The analysis revealed three distinct agromorphological groups. Group II, comprising Super Violet, H1, and Ares, exhibited superior performance, characterized by tall plants (50.16–52.73 cm), long and broad leaves (up to 48.16 cm in length and 1.34 cm in diameter), heavy bulbs (66.60 g) and the highest yield (79.3 t/ha). Group III, represented solely by the Safari variety, had the lowest performance, with a yield of 19.6 t/ha, though it showed early maturity. Group I, including Karibou, Natangue, Bati and Violet De Galmi, displayed intermediate traits. Based on these findings, varieties in Group II are recommended to improve onion yield in northern Côte d'Ivoire.