Texas redbud tree named Traveller

#The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of Texas Redbud (Cercis canadensis var. texensis) which was discovered from selection of some 10,000 seedlings grown from seed obtained from a wild stand of Cercis canadensis var. texensis in Blanco County, Tex. The discovery has been entitled Texas Redbud Tree named "Traveller". The seedlings were grown in San Marcos, Hays County, Tex. Seed was collected in Blanco County in the state of Texas; specifically at the junction of the little Blanco River and U.S. 281. Seed was cleaned, scarified and germinated at a nursery located at 2318 Hilliard Road in Hays County, Tex. Asexual propagation by both tip cuttings and by grafting were also done at the same location.

#This new variety of redbud is best taxonmically referable to variety texensis by the following considerations:

#(1) the mature adaxial leaf surface is glaucous with leaf color deep green, and leaf blade texture coriaceous;

#Sheet 1 is a photograph of the new and distinct variety showing the steam alternate branching and the orientation of arching shoots reorienting downwardly.

#Sheet 2 is a photograph of the new and distinct variety showing the leafing and weeping habit.

#Sheet 3 is a photograph of the new and distinct variety showing the leaf color with margins slightly undulated.

#The selection is currently being asexually reproduced by tip cuttings. New, green growth from stem tips 3 nodes long, are dipped in 0.3% IBA and set in a mist room. Callus forms within forty (40) days, followed by root formation at sixty (60) to seventy-five (75) days. Approximately seventy-five (75%) percent of the cuttings take.

#The metric system is used for measurements and all terms are in accordance with standard botanical nomenclature. Measurements were taken from the original selection grown in full sun. The plant was well watered and fertilized.

#Micropropagation in tissue culture will most likely be the mode of commercial reproduction. This species and variety is already being successfully micropropagated by at least 2 commercial tissue culture labs in the United States. Whether micropropagation will be "in house" and done at this location or will be farmed out is uncertain at this time.