Thuja Lesdasma Plant Mutation for Dense Branching and Dark Green Color
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a new and distinct variety of Thuja occidentalis that exhibits desirable characteristics such as dark green fall to winter leaf color, dense branching, and a slender conical plant habit, which are not adequately met by existing varieties like 'Smaragd' and 'Silvanus 1'.
Innovation Solution
The new variety 'Lesdasma' is derived from a whole plant mutation of 'Smaragd', characterized by its dark green foliage, dense branching, and conical shape, achieved through vegetative propagation, offering a distinct alternative for horticultural use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing Thuja varieties like 'Smaragd' and 'Silvanus 1' are used, then they provide conical shape and moderate growth, but they fail to provide dark green fall to winter leaf color, dense branching, and slender habit simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by selecting and propagating a whole plant mutation that exhibits altered phenotypic parameters compared to the parent 'Smaragd' variety. The mutation displays dark green fall to winter leaf color (color parameter change), dense branching (structural parameter change), and slender conical habit (shape parameter change), thereby resolving the contradiction by finding a variety that simultaneously optimizes multiple aesthetic parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new variety with distinct characteristics is developed, then it offers unique aesthetic value, but it requires time-consuming mutation selection and propagation processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes natural whole plant mutation that occurred spontaneously in the parent variety 'Smaragd'. Rather than investing extensive resources in creating mutations through breeding programs, the invention identifies and propagates a naturally occurring mutation that already possesses the desired characteristics. This self-service approach leverages nature's variation to provide the distinct aesthetic profile without requiring time-consuming artificial mutation induction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a medium growth rate is achieved, then the plant is suitable for garden and hedge applications, but it takes longer to reach mature size compared to fast-growing varieties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent accepts a medium growth rate parameter as an optimal value for the intended application (garden and hedge plants). While fast-growing varieties may reach maturity quicker, the medium growth rate of 'Lesdasma' is balanced with other parameters including dense branching, slender habit, and dark green fall to winter color, creating a variety that is optimally suited for ornamental garden use where aesthetic qualities are prioritized over rapid establishment.
Data Source
AI summary
A new Thuja plant particularly distinguished by having green to dark green leaf color, dense branching and a slender conical plant habit, is disclosed.