One thing that traditionally heralds spring at Rice University is the bloom-boom of azaleas across campus. Many of them are very large, and all of them quite vibrant.
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| Outside the Multicultural Center |
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| Are these 'Robled' azaleas? |
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| Probably an unpatented white cultivar |
Soon azaleas are joined by countless other flowering plants. Meanwhile, grass, trees, and other plants are bouncing back from their winter hibernation.
Of course, here in the PTRC, when we see spring flora, we immediately think of all the patents that went into creating the seasonal show. After all, thick packets of plant patents are delivered to us year-round. This year, we’re celebrating the return of spring with a display that features patented plants found on campus.
For those wondering why we still receive paper copies of patents in a digital era, you only need to download a PDF to understand. The paper copies we get include full-color plant images, and pictures in the digital database are low-quality grayscale images.
Trying to explain what makes a Liriope muscari ‘Bigun’ (patent linked here) distinct from previous varieties via text and blurry, grayscale pictures is impossible. Even among non-flowering greenery, like the Leatherleaf fern ‘Underhill’ (patent linked here), trying to make out details of foliage is challenging.
I promise it will be clear when you come visit the display
in the Kelley Center, going up on Tuesday, March 22nd. Remember to
pick up a map with a list of patented plants to find on campus, use the list below, or download the list with a campus map here!
Also, I'd like to thank Dawn Roth-Ehlinger for helping me identify campus plants and the Woodson Research Center staff for helping create the display.