Hydrangea SMHMLDD Reblooming Cultivar with Strong Stems

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current Hydrangea breeding programs lack reblooming varieties with strong stems and attractive flower coloration, particularly in the Hydrangea macrophylla species, which are not adequately addressed by existing cultivars.

Innovation Solution

A new Hydrangea macrophylla cultivar 'SMHMLDD' is developed through cross-pollination of Hydrangea macrophylla 'Lynn' and 'ES5', exhibiting upright and mounded growth, strong stems, large lacecap-type inflorescences with distinct flower colors, and a reblooming habit, achieved through asexual reproduction by softwood cuttings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing Hydrangea cultivars are used, then the plant structure is maintained, but reblooming capability and flower coloration are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereblooming capabilityVSAvoidflower coloration consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selectively breeding for specific phenotypic parameters including reblooming capability, flower coloration (pink to purple hues), inflorescence size, and stem strength. The cultivar 'SMHMLDD' was developed by changing these parameters through controlled cross-pollination and selection, achieving a combination of reblooming behavior and attractive coloration that distinguishes it from parent cultivars.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Area of stationary object

If inflorescence size is increased, then flower display is improved, but stem strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinflorescence sizeVSAvoidstem strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by developing inflorescences with specific structural characteristics - large lacecap-type formations with numerous sterile flowers arranged in a compact pattern. The stem strength is maintained through localized reinforcement at the inflorescence attachment points, allowing large flower displays without compromising structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Shape

If sterile flowers are enlarged, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but fertile flower development may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesterile flower sizeVSAvoidfertile flower development
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by creating a differentiation between sterile and fertile flowers within the inflorescence. The sterile flowers are enlarged for aesthetic appeal with prominent pink to purple coloration, while the fertile flowers maintain adequate development for reproduction. This local differentiation allows both aesthetic and reproductive functions to be optimized simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUSPP25105P2Hydrangea plant named `SMHMLDD`
Publication Date: 2014.11.25 SPRING MEADOW NURSERY INC
  • USPP25105P2 patent drawing
  • USPP25105P2 patent drawing

AI summary

A new and distinct cultivar of Hydrangea plant named ‘SMHMLDD’, characterized by its upright and mounded plant habit; strong and sturdy stems; dark green-colored leaves; large lacecap-type inflorescences with large soft pink-colored sterile flowers and red purple-colored fertile flowers; and reblooming habit.