Texture

[helixturnhelix]

Hi Charlie,

I was hoping you could have some data on which CV seem to pass on their good texture and form on a regular basis to their offspring.  I really like my Belle du Jour, and its ruffly texture is so unique, I noticed that one of her offspring 'maid of honor' also has that ruffly texture.  Do many of her offspring express this unique trait?

There is of course HOMH, which I also have, that has awesome texture and form.  In 'Dragon's heart' it looks like this form and texture was also passed on.  Does HOMH often pass this trait as well?

-Chris   

[Charlie]

Hi Chris,

This topic will take some thought. Texture is important, and good texture highly desirable. However, usually it is not the main criteria for selection of a new variety as a keeper so there is not much data.

Here are some quick thoughts about texture, which I define as the feel and look of hibiscus flower petals regarding the structure, thickness, stiffness, and durability of the petals. It has little to nothing to do with color or size.

Texture can be:

Thin - this type usually does not hold form well or last long but there are exceptions
Medium - this is typical or average in the qualities listed above and is neither a plus nor a minus for a variety.
Heavy - this is generally desirable and can correlate positively with good form.
Too heavy - very stiff and heavy petals often makes them not open correctly in which case the blooms are called "crippled".
Stiff - this is also often desirable, and is a noticeable stiffness that allows some large blooms to open flat and hold their form in wind. Examples are Byron Metts, Bonnie B, and Strawberry Cream.
Crinkled - this would be Belle du Jour and others that show a seer sucker structure and are also medium to heavy petals. Crinkled does not appear to be related to function but rather is an aesthetic variable.

It would be worth tracking this trait although since parents are usually not selected because of it this is more problematic.

Just some first thoughts.

Charlie

[helixturnhelix]

Hmmm that is interesting, I didnt realize there are so many different categories of texture.  My favorite is crinkled, but I am sucker for unique and fancy form.  Strawberry creme is a very interesting cv because usually large flowers do not have such heavy texture.  I guess texture and form are a little more involved as far as inheritance is concerned.  I feel like Gator Pride is too heavy because it doesnt open correctly unless I give it some help.  Does anyone else find this as true?