Salvia ‘DH004’ Selective Breeding for Violet-Blue Flowers and Compact Growth

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a new variety of Salvia plant that exhibits violet blue flowers, large leaf size, and a compact, low-growing habit, which are not adequately addressed by existing Salvia varieties.

Innovation Solution

The development of a new Salvia variety, 'DH004', derived from a cross between '1431-6-T2' and 'Calamity Jane', characterized by violet blue flowers, large leaves, and a compact growth habit, suitable for home gardens, commercial landscapes, and water-wise gardens, with specific cultural requirements and hardiness in zone 8a.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If existing Salvia varieties are used, then general ornamental value is maintained, but violet blue flower color and large leaf size are not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleaf sizeVSAvoidvariety selection range
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selectively breeding for specific traits including flower color (violet blue), leaf size (large), and growth habit (compact). This resolves the contradiction by creating a new variety that meets specific aesthetic parameters while maintaining adaptability through controlled propagation methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Shape

If Salvia varieties with vibrant flowers are selected, then ornamental value is improved, but plant size becomes too large for compact spaces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflower colorVSAvoidplant height
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by concentrating desirable traits (violet blue flowers, large leaves) in specific areas while controlling overall plant dimensions. The compact growth habit is achieved through selective breeding that promotes dense, low-growing architecture, resolving the contradiction between vibrant floral display and compact size suitable for containers and small spaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Productivity

If traditional propagation methods are used, then plant multiplication is achieved, but true-to-type reproduction consistency varies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepropagation efficiencyVSAvoidreproduction consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service through the use of tissue culture propagation, where the plant cells themselves are induced to multiply and differentiate into complete plants. This method ensures true-to-type reproduction because each new plant is genetically identical to the parent, resolving the contradiction between propagation efficiency and reproduction consistency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUSPP37031P3<i>Salvia </i>plant named ‘DH004’
Publication Date: 2025.10.14 DESERT HONED LLC
  • USPP37031P3 patent drawing

AI summary

A new Salvia plant designated ‘DH004’ particularly distinguished by violet blue flowers, a large leaf size; and a compact, low growing plant habit, is disclosed.