From petals to patterns: recent advances in breeding for diverse floral forms1
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Authors
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Giriraj Kishor Tripathi
ICAR-National Research Centre, Tabiji, Ajmer
Author
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Aakanksha Tiwari
Naini Agriculture Institute, Dept. of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.)
Author
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Devi Singh
Naini Agriculture Institute, Dept. of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.)
Author
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Tikam Das Vaishnav
Dept. of Horticulture, RNT College of Agriculture, Kapasan, MPUAT, Udaipur (Raj) 3Senior Technical Officer, ICAR-NRCSS, Ajmer (Rajasthan)
Author
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S. K. Rajoriya
Dept. of MBBT, RNT College of Agriculture, Kapasan, MPUAT, Udaipur (Raj)
Author
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Mohit R Sharma
ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, Tabiji, Ajmer
Author
Abstract
Floriculture is a dynamic and economically important sector, driven
by consumer demand for novelty, aesthetics, and unique floral
designs. Among breeding goals, the development of novel flower
colours and forms is central, as these traits directly influence market
value and consumer preference. This
review summarizes the genetic and biochemical bases of floral
pigmentation and morphology and examines both
traditional approaches, such as hybridization, mutation breeding, and
polyploidy, and modern molecular tools, including transgenics, RNA
interference, CRISPR-Cas genome editing, and marker-assisted
selection. Case studies in rose,
chrysanthemum, petunia, gerbera, and carnation illustrate practical
achievements in expanding colour diversity and floral forms. Despite
these advances, challenges remain in trait stability, regulatory
compliance, and consumer acceptance of genetically modified
ornamentals. The integration of conventional
and advanced breeding strategies offers opportunities for creating
unique, visually appealing, and market-ready ornamental varieties.
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