Hydrangea ‘LC NO23’ Compact Growth with Strong Stems and White Blooms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Hydrangea cultivars lack distinct characteristics such as sturdy stems, compact size, bright white sepals, and a prolonged flowering period from June to September, with variations in flower size and color among different cultivars.

Innovation Solution

The development of the Hydrangea arborescens cultivar 'LC NO23', which exhibits sturdy stems, medium compact size, bright white sepals throughout the flowering period, and a semi-flattened globular flower head, distinguishing it from other cultivars.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing Hydrangea cultivars are used, then they provide ornamental value, but they lack distinct characteristics such as sturdy stems, compact size, bright white sepals, and prolonged flowering period

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistinct characteristicsVSAvoidconsistent phenotype
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and stabilizing specific horticultural parameters (stem strength, plant size, sepal color, flowering period) through controlled breeding. The cultivar 'LC NO23' was developed by crossing two unnamed seedlings and selecting for specific parameter combinations that yield distinct characteristics while maintaining phenotypic consistency across generations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional breeding approach by starting with a controlled cross of two specific seedlings and then selecting for desired traits rather than selecting randomly from a large population. This inversion of the breeding strategy enabled the development of a cultivar with stable, distinct characteristics that differentiate it from existing commercial varieties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Volume of moving object

If plant size is reduced to achieve compact growth, then ornamental value improves, but stem strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplant sizeVSAvoidstem strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by changing the parameter combination rather than simply reducing size. The cultivar 'LC NO23' achieves compact plant size (smaller than both parents) while simultaneously developing stronger stems through selective breeding. This parameter optimization shows that size reduction and strength enhancement can occur simultaneously through careful genetic selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Area of stationary object

If flower head size is increased for better ornamental effect, then visual impact improves, but flowering period may be shortened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflower head sizeVSAvoidflowering period
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the relationship between flower head characteristics and flowering duration. The cultivar 'LC NO23' produces semi-flattened globular flower heads that are denser and flatter than commercial varieties, while maintaining a prolonged flowering period from June to September. This parameter optimization demonstrates that enhanced flower head morphology can coexist with extended flowering duration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUSPP36865P2<i>Hydrangea </i>plant named ‘LC NO23’
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 ALEX SCHOEMAKER LIVING CREATIONS HLDG BV
  • USPP36865P2 patent drawing
  • USPP36865P2 patent drawing

AI summary

A new and distinct cultivar of Hydrangea arborescens plant named ‘LC NO23’ is disclosed, characterized by sturdy stems on medium sized, compact plants. Panicles are semi-flattened globular in shape and dense with flowers. Plants are highly floriferous and flower from June to September. The sterile flowers have ornamental sepals that are bright white from the beginning to the end of the flower period. The new variety is a Hydrangea, typically produced as an outdoor ornamental plant.