Cultivar

A cultivar (derived from 'cultivated variety') is a plant variety that has been intentionally selected and maintained through cultivation, displaying specific, desirable traits that distinguish it from other plants of the same species. These traits can include characteristics such as flower color, fruit size, disease resistance, growth habit, or yield. Cultivars are typically propagated vegetatively (through cuttings, grafting, or division) or, sometimes, via carefully controlled seed production to ensure the consistent reproduction of these specific traits. They are not naturally occurring and are developed through human intervention. The naming of a cultivar follows a standardized system. This system involves a 'cultivar name' and a 'species name' in which the cultivar name is written with a capitalized first letter and is always enclosed in single quotation marks (e.g., *Rosa* 'Peace').

Cultivar meaning with examples

• The *Rosa* 'Peace' cultivar, renowned for its large, yellow flowers, was a significant achievement in rose breeding. It was carefully selected and propagated to preserve its unique traits, illustrating how cultivars are human-developed and maintained. This cultivar has a long history of being a symbol of peace, showcasing how cultivars are often chosen for more than just beauty.
• Gardeners often choose tomato cultivars based on their specific needs, such as disease resistance. The *Solanum lycopersicum* 'Celebrity' cultivar, for instance, is a popular choice because of its high yield and resistance to common tomato diseases. Cultivars have varying levels of pest tolerance, and gardeners frequently select plants that fit their conditions. Cultivars meet specific planting needs.
• Apple orchards are typically composed of several cultivars of *Malus domestica*, such as 'Honeycrisp' and 'Gala,' each offering a unique flavor and storage quality. These cultivars are grafted onto rootstocks to ensure consistent fruit production and desired characteristics. Orchardists must carefully manage and select cultivars that will thrive in their environment.
• Researchers are constantly developing new cultivars of wheat (*Triticum aestivum*) to improve yield and resilience to climate change. The goal is to create cultivars with greater drought resistance and enhanced nutritional value. This is an example of applied agricultural research with cultivars, which is driven by the need to produce food more efficiently.
• Many of the ornamental plants available in nurseries are cultivars, such as *Hydrangea macrophylla* 'Endless Summer,' celebrated for its continuous blooming. These cultivars are favored for their aesthetic appeal, demonstrating how cultivars are essential in landscaping, horticulture, and the creation of ornamental landscapes. Cultivars often add beauty to residential and public spaces.