Calluna K6322 Cultivar Uniformity and Branch Thickness

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Calluna vulgaris cultivars lack desirable traits such as uniformity, branch thickness, and seasonal leaf color changes, which are not adequately addressed in current breeding programs.

Innovation Solution

A new cultivar, 'K6322', resulting from a controlled cross-pollination between proprietary selections K5048 and E5025, exhibits a compact, upright growth habit with thick squarish branches and light yellow leaves in autumn and winter, offering improved uniformity and distinct visual characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional Calluna vulgaris cultivars are used, then basic growth is maintained, but uniformity and branch thickness are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveuniformityVSAvoidbranch thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and breeding plants with specific genetic parameters that result in thicker branches and greater uniformity. The breeding program specifically targets parameters such as branch diameter, plant height uniformity, and branching density to overcome the limitations of existing cultivars.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing Calluna cultivars are used, then green foliage is maintained, but seasonal color variation is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseasonal color changeVSAvoidcolor stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by introducing seasonal variability in leaf color while maintaining overall plant health and vigor. The new cultivar dynamically changes from green during the growing season to yellow in autumn and winter, providing temporal variation that enhances garden interest while maintaining reliable evergreen characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If thicker branches are bred for, then structural strength is improved, but growth vigor may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebranch thicknessVSAvoidgrowth vigor
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by concentrating the thickened branch trait in specific locations and structures while maintaining overall plant vigor. The breeding program develops thick, squarish branches that provide structural strength where needed, while the rest of the plant maintains healthy growth rates and foliage density.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUSPP26216P2<i>Calluna </i>plant named ‘K6322’
Publication Date: 2015.12.15 EDENS CREATIONS
  • USPP26216P2 patent drawing

AI summary

A new and distinct cultivar of Calluna plant named ‘K6322’, characterized by its compact and upright to outwardly spreading plant habit; freely basal and lateral branching habit; dense and bushy appearance; moderately vigorous growth habit; thick squarish branches; green-colored leaves that become light yellow in color during the autumn and winter; and good garden performance.