Lithodora MonRik Variegated Leaf Mutation

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a distinct cultivar of Lithodora diffusa that exhibits unique characteristics such as variegated leaves and bright blue flowers, differing from existing varieties like 'Grace Ward' and 'White Star', with stable reproduction through vegetative cuttings.

Innovation Solution

A naturally occurring branch mutation of Lithodora diffusa 'Grace Ward', designated as 'MonRik', which displays a compact, upright growth habit, green and creamy white variegated leaves, and bright blue flowers, reproduced through vegetative cuttings in a controlled greenhouse environment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a distinct cultivar with variegated leaves and bright blue flowers is developed, then unique aesthetic characteristics are improved, but the complexity of plant breeding and selection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveleaf color patternVSAvoidbreeding complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cultivar 'MonRik' exhibits stable inheritance of its unique variegated leaf pattern and bright blue flower characteristics through self-reproduction via vegetative cuttings, eliminating the need for complex artificial breeding interventions to maintain these aesthetic traits

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent identifies specific phenotypic parameters (variegated leaf coloration, bright blue flower color) that distinguish 'MonRik' from parent and related cultivars, establishing measurable characteristics for cultivation and selection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stability of the object's composition

If the plant is propagated through vegetative cuttings, then true-to-type reproduction is improved, but the time required for propagation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegenetic stabilityVSAvoidpropagation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The plant performs self-reproduction through vegetative cuttings, maintaining genetic stability and true-to-type characteristics without requiring external breeding interventions or complex propagation systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes propagation protocols that prepare cutting material and optimize rooting conditions in advance, enabling efficient vegetative reproduction while maintaining the unique phenotypic characteristics of 'MonRik'

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the plant is grown under varying environmental conditions, then adaptability is improved, but phenotypic variation increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenvironmental adaptabilityVSAvoidphenotypic consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent documents specific phenotypic parameters (leaf color, flower color, growth habit) that remain consistent across different environmental conditions, establishing the cultivar's stable identity while noting acceptable variations in growth rate and size

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUSPP26250P2<i>Lithodora </i>plant named ‘MonRik’

Publication Date: 2015.12.22 MONROVIA NURSERY CO

AI summary

A new and distinct cultivar of Lithodora plant named ‘MonRik’, characterized by its compact, upright to somewhat outwardly spreading and uniformly mounded plant habit; freely branching habit; green and creamy white-colored variegated leaves; bright blue-colored flowers; and good garden performance.