Compact Ficus Cultivar with Pubescent Branches and Small Leaves

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a distinct and stable Ficus benghalensis cultivar that exhibits a compact growth habit and small foliage, with pubescent lateral branches, petioles, and foliage, which are not readily available in existing varieties.

Innovation Solution

The cultivar 'ESPE1902' is a naturally occurring mutation of Ficus benghalensis, characterized by its compact growth habit, small foliage, and pubescent lateral branches and petioles, which has been stabilized through asexual reproduction and is suitable for commercialization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a compact growth habit is selected in Ficus benghalensis, then plant size is reduced, but foliage density and pubescence may increase making the plant less commercially attractive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplant sizeVSAvoidfoliage density and pubescence

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by selecting for pubescence specifically on lateral branches, petioles, and foliage while maintaining overall compact growth. This targeted approach to hair development creates a distinctive ornamental feature without compromising the compact habit or commercial appeal of the plant.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes key parameters of the Ficus benghalensis plant including growth habit (compact), foliage size (small), and surface texture (pubescent). These parameter changes create a novel cultivar that meets specific ornamental requirements while maintaining plant health and commercial viability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Volume of moving object

If small foliage is selected, then ornamental value increases, but overall plant vigor may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefoliage sizeVSAvoidplant vigor

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent simultaneously changes multiple parameters including small foliage size, compact growth habit, and pubescent characteristics. These coordinated parameter changes create a balanced cultivar that maintains vigor through the compact habit while achieving the desired small foliage for ornamental value.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Loss of information

If pubescent lateral branches and petioles are selected, then distinctiveness is improved, but susceptibility to pest and disease may increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovedistinctivenessVSAvoidpest and disease susceptibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by confining pubescence to specific plant parts (lateral branches, petioles, and foliage) rather than the entire plant. This localized hair development provides distinctiveness while potentially reducing overall susceptibility to pests and diseases compared to complete plant pubescence.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUSPP33452P3<i>Ficus </i>plant named ‘ESPE1902’

Publication Date: 2021.09.07 J VAN GEEST HLDG BV

AI summary

A new and distinct variety of Ficus plant named ‘ESPE1902’ which is characterized by the combination of a compact growth habit, small pubescent leaves borne on pubescent petioles, pubescent lateral branches, and the stability of all characteristics from generation to generation.