Sedum SUNSTAR Compact Growth and Propagation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a distinct and commercially viable cultivar of Sedum adolphi that offers unique ornamental features such as compact size, vibrant leaf colors, and enhanced propagation capabilities, which are not adequately met by existing varieties like 'Firestorm' and 'Sunset'.
Innovation Solution
The cultivar 'SUNSTAR' exhibits multiheaded clusters of golden orange leaves with deep vermillion tips and margins, forming a compact, fast-growing, and profusely branching succulent ideal for decorative arrangements and nursery propagation, achieved through terminal vegetative cuttings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If Sedum adolphi is used for commercial propagation, then robust growth is achieved, but plant size becomes too large for decorative centerpieces and dish gardens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and propagating a mutant plant with altered growth parameters. The 'SUNSTAR' cultivar exhibits naturally occurring mutations that result in significantly reduced plant size (approximately one-quarter the size of the parent) while maintaining the robust growth habit and vigor characteristic of Sedum adolphi. This size parameter change makes the plant suitable for decorative centerpieces and dish gardens while preserving commercial propagation viability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing Sedum varieties are used, then commercial availability is maintained, but unique ornamental features such as vibrant leaf colors and compact size are not adequately provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by highlighting the unique ornamental characteristics of the 'SUNSTAR' cultivar that distinguish it from commercially available varieties. The plant exhibits vibrant golden orange foliage with vermillion tips and margins, compact mounding growth habit, and multi-headed clustering. These localized quality features provide the unique ornamental appeal sought by consumers while the plant maintains reliability for commercial propagation through true-to-type asexual reproduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent demonstrates self-service through the plant's natural mutation and self-propagation capabilities. The 'SUNSTAR' cultivar arose as a naturally occurring whole plant mutation that was discovered and then propagated asexually through terminal vegetative cuttings. The plant maintains genetic stability across generations through this self-propagation mechanism, ensuring commercial reliability without requiring complex intervention while preserving its unique ornamental features.
3Stability of the object's composition
If propagation is performed through terminal vegetative cuttings, then true-to-type reproduction is achieved, but propagation speed and efficiency may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing terminal vegetative cuttings that are pre-treated to optimize root development. The cutting method is performed at the optimal stage of plant growth, and cuttings are placed in conditions that promote rapid rooting. This preliminary preparation ensures both genetic stability through true-to-type reproduction and improved propagation efficiency by reducing the time to establish new plants.
Data Source
AI summary
A new and distinct cultivar of Sedum plant named ‘Sunstar’ is disclosed, characterized by golden orange foliage accentuated by deep vermillion leaf tips and margins. Plants are diminutive with robust growth, useful for decorative centerpieces and dish gardens. The robust growth of the new variety enhances production times in the commercial nursery. The new variety is a Sedum, typically be produced as a container plant for the patio or as landscape plants, as well as a variety of ornamental purposes.