Objective To identify elite clones of Falcataria falcata with excellent growth and stress resistance, 19 clones were comprehensively evaluated across four developmental stages of 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 years of age using growth traits (tree height, diameter at breast height (DBH) and volume), trunk shape (branching traits), wind damage rate, incidence rate, and comprehensive performance.

Methods Analysis of variance, correlation analysis, and Brecking's multi-trait comprehensive evaluation method were employed to determine trait differences and genetic performance of clones across different age stages.

Result Highly significant differences (p<0.01) in tree height, DBH, and volume among clones at all ages. Stem volume exhibited the greatest genetic variation, while tree height demonstrated high stability. Clone B8 consistently exhibited superior growth performance across all age stages. Clones A4 and B2 had lower branching indices, indicating desirable trunk shape. Clones B2 and Da1 showed the lowest wind damage rate across all stages, indicating strong wind resistance. Clones A8, A9 and B8 were relatively susceptible to disease, whereas 57.89% of F. falcata clones (A1, A2, A3, A4, A6, B4, B7, TL14, TL17, Da1 and Da2) exhibited strong disease resistance. Correlation analysis revealed highly significant positive correlations among growth traits, while branching traits were negatively correlated with growth traits and stress resistance. Based on comprehensive multi-trait analysis, clones TL17, Da1, D12, and A4 were identified as elite candidates, exhibiting consistently superior growth and stress resistance across all age stages, along with high genetic gain and strong trait stability.

Conclusion Clones TL17, Da1, D12 and A4 have excellent growth performance and strong stress resistance, and have important breeding and promotion value. These findings provide a valuable theoretical basis for the genetic improvement and efficient cultivation of F. falcata.