Adiantum Frond Morphology With Terminal Pinnae Clusters

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Adiantum cultivars lack distinct ornamental features such as pendulous fronds and clusters of pinnae at the terminal ends, limiting their aesthetic appeal and diversity in ornamental applications.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of the Adiantum 'TASSELS' cultivar, which exhibits unique characteristics like pendulous fronds and clusters of pinnae at the terminal ends, providing a distinctive ornamental appearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If conventional Adiantum cultivars are used, then they have standard frond morphology, but they lack distinct ornamental features and aesthetic appeal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrond morphologyVSAvoidbreedability
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by creating fronds with an uneven distribution of pinnae, where clusters of pinnae are concentrated at the terminal ends rather than being evenly distributed along the frond. This asymmetric arrangement creates the distinctive ornamental appearance with pendulous fronds that hang downward, differentiating the cultivar from conventional Adiantum species with uniform pinnae distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimensional characteristic by developing pendulous fronds that hang vertically downward rather than extending horizontally. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical orientation creates a three-dimensional ornamental effect, adding visual interest and distinctiveness to the cultivar's overall form and structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Stability of the object's composition

If Adiantum 'TASSELS' is propagated asexually, then distinctive characteristics are retained, but propagation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharacteristic retentionVSAvoidpropagation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs asexual propagation methods such as tissue culture and division to create exact genetic copies of the parent plant. This copying process ensures that the distinctive characteristics including pendulous fronds and terminal pinnae clusters are faithfully reproduced in offspring, maintaining genetic stability and characteristic retention across generations without requiring complex breeding procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUSPP37235P2<i>Adiantum </i>plant named ‘TASSELS’
Publication Date: 2026.01.27 STEELE WENDY
  • USPP37235P2 patent drawing
  • USPP37235P2 patent drawing

AI summary

A new and distinct Adiantum cultivar named ‘TASSELS’ is disclosed, characterized by unique clusters of pinnae forming at terminus of fronds on mature plants, creating a different ornamental appearance due this this distinct morphology. Fronds are pendulous, large and composed of large pinnae. Plants of the new variety have been observed to recover rapidly and entirely from die back caused by drought. The new variety is a Adiantum, typically produced as an ornamental plant.