Thuja RLH-GG Cultivar Compact Form and Branch Flexibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a distinct cultivar of Thuja trees that exhibits a compact, upright, and densely branching growth habit with fine-textured and flexible branches, capable of tolerating high humidity and temperature variations, which differs from existing cultivars like 'Green Giant' and 'Altrovirens' in terms of size, vigor, and leaf texture.
Innovation Solution
A naturally occurring branch mutation of Thuja standishii x Thuja plicata, designated as 'RLH-GG', which is propagated through semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttings, showcasing a unique combination of compact growth, moderate vigor, and enhanced temperature tolerance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If Thuja trees are bred for vigorous growth and large size (like 'Green Giant'), then growth rate and tree size are improved, but the plant form becomes more open and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by selecting for specific localized characteristics (compactness, branching density, lateral branch texture) within the Thuja tree population, rather than uniformly optimizing for all traits. This allows different parts of the tree to exhibit optimized properties: dense branching throughout the canopy, fine-textured lateral branches, and compact overall form, while maintaining vigorous growth through selective propagation of the mutated phenotype.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes parameter changes by identifying and propagating a natural mutation that alters key growth parameters. The mutated tree exhibits changed parameters including reduced internode length (increasing compactness), increased branching frequency (creating dense form), and modified lateral branch development (producing fine texture). These parameter changes are stabilized through asexual propagation, creating a new cultivar with optimized characteristics.
2Strength
If lateral branches are made thick and rigid for structural strength, then resistance to cracking and splitting is improved, but flexibility and fine texture are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies parameter changes by selecting for a mutation that optimizes lateral branch parameters. The mutated phenotype produces lateral branches with specific characteristics: sufficient thickness for structural integrity and crack resistance, while maintaining fine texture and flexibility. This balance is achieved through natural selection of the mutated form and stabilization through asexual propagation, creating an optimal parameter combination for both strength and aesthetic quality.
3Shape
If leaves are selected for soft and fine texture, then aesthetic quality is improved, but tolerance to environmental stress (humidity and temperature) may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by selecting for specific leaf characteristics (soft, fine texture) while ensuring the overall plant exhibits environmental stress tolerance. The mutated phenotype produces leaves with optimized local properties for aesthetic quality, while the root system and overall plant architecture maintain resilience to environmental stresses including high humidity and temperature variations. This localized optimization of leaf texture without sacrificing overall plant hardiness is achieved through selective propagation of the mutated phenotype.
Data Source
AI summary
A new and distinct cultivar of Thuja tree named ‘RLH-GG’, characterized by its relatively compact, upright and narrowly columnar plant form; moderately vigorous growth habit and moderate growth rate; freely branching habit; dense and bushy form from base to top of the tree; lateral branches that are fine-textured and flexible and resist cracking and splitting; dark green-colored leaves that are soft and fine-textured and tolerate high humidity and high temperatures conditions; and good garden performance.