From Lab to Landscape: The Science Behind the Flame Thrower Redbud

Simply ornamentally beautiful, the Flame Thrower Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘NC2016-2’) is a product born from years of intensive scientific research, plant breeding, and innovation. From burgundy to gold and green, this redbud has the brilliant foliage it exhibits throughout the season. This is a horticultural breakthrough indeed. But how was this colourful showstopper parented?

Exploring the Creation Process of the Flame Thrower Redbud

1. Selective Breeding at Its Core 

This is the Redbud Flamethrower classic development process using traditional methods of plant breeding at North Carolina State University under the expertise of the famous plant breeder, Dr. Denny Werner. They had to develop this fantastic redbud with brightly colourful and long-lasting colours that have never been seen before in the species.

2. Parents and Controlled Pollination

Select parent plants with desired characteristics--size, disease resistance, vibrant foliage and compact habit. Controlled cross-pollination allowed them to bring those genetic, desiring combinations into seedlings with colour patterns with potential for the novel.

3. Stringent Application and Testing

They had taken thousands of seedlings and outlived them for years. The Flame Thrower Redbud Tree exhibited the most articulate display of foliage, along with good structure in new and resilient branches. The tests, which formed part of the evaluation, included those relating to hardiness, disease resistance, and beauty value. 

4. Stabilising and Patenting 

Once the characteristics have shown themselves to be stable now through generations, this tree would then be patented and trademarked for the protection of the unique genetic identity of this tree. It will be introduced to the public in 2020.

Conclusion

Flame Thrower Redbud Trees are the perfect example of science and beauty working hand-in-hand. Through years of careful breeding and scientific precision, researchers created a tree that not only thrives in landscapes but also turns heads with its stunning, ever-changing foliage and is a true botanical innovation.