Plant Breeding

Plant Taxonomy: Understanding the Difference Between Cultivars and Varieties

Introduction

In the realm of plant classification, the terms “cultivar” and “variety” are often used interchangeably. However, these terms represent distinct categories with different origins and characteristics. Understanding the nuances between cultivars and varieties is crucial for gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and anyone involved in plant breeding.

What is a Cultivar?

A cultivar is a plant that has been deliberately created and propagated through human intervention. This process typically involves cross-pollinating two parent plants to develop a desirable trait in the offspring. The resulting hybrid is then maintained through cloning techniques such as cuttings, grafting, or tissue culture.

Characteristics of Cultivars:

• Human Intervention: Cultivars are the result of selective breeding and propagation by humans.
• Individual Plants: Cultivars are individual plants that exhibit specific, desirable characteristics.
• Seed Viability: Cultivars may or may not produce viable seeds. Seeds often do not result in exact replicas of the parent plant.

What is a Variety?

A variety, on the other hand, is a group of plants that occurs naturally in the wild. It differs from the standard species as a result of natural evolution or adaptation to specific environmental conditions. Varieties are characterized by their ability to reproduce true to type from seed.

Characteristics of Varieties:

• Natural Occurrence: Varieties are found in natural populations and arise through natural selection.
• Group of Plants: Varieties consist of multiple plants with similar traits that distinguish them from the species.
• Seed Viability: Varieties produce seeds that develop into replicas of the parent plant.

Key Differences Between Cultivars and Varieties

Legal Considerations

It is important to note that some cultivars may be patented, which means that reproducing or propagating them without permission is illegal. This is done to protect the investment of plant breeders who have spent years developing new and desirable plant varieties.

Benefits of Cultivars

Cultivars offer several advantages over wild species, including:

• Enhanced Disease Resistance: Cultivars are often bred for increased resistance to diseases and pests.
• Desirable Traits: Cultivars are selected for specific traits that make them more appealing to gardeners, such as unique flower colors, larger blooms, or compact growth habits.
• Market Value: Cultivars with desirable traits command higher prices in the market due to their exclusivity and popularity.
• Diversity: Cultivars contribute to plant diversity by introducing new and innovative plant varieties.

Tips for Identifying Cultivars and Varieties

• Labeling: Cultivars are often labeled with a specific name in addition to the genus and species. This name may be descriptive of a specific characteristic or may be the name of the breeder who created it. The cultivar name is capitalized and surrounded by single quotation marks.
• Seed Viability: Varieties produce viable seeds that result in true-to-type offspring, while cultivars may or may not produce viable seeds.
• Availability: Cultivars are typically available from nurseries and garden centers, while varieties are often found in natural habitats or can be collected from wild populations.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between cultivars and varieties is essential for informed plant selection and propagation. Cultivars offer specific benefits and advantages over wild species, but it is important to consider their legal status and the ethical implications of their propagation. By carefully choosing and propagating cultivars and varieties, gardeners and plant enthusiasts can contribute to the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom.