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The research team led by Associate Professor Yen-Ming Chen of the Department of Horticulture, National Chung Hsing University (NCHU), has once again brought its self-bred new ivy cultivar, “Pikaju”, to the spotlight of the Republic of China (Taiwan) National Day (Double Tenth) celebration stage in Year 114. This year’s National Day theme, “Blooming Taiwan,” integrates four major motifs—agriculture, innovation, technology, and the ocean—to highlight Taiwan’s diverse creativity and resilient vitality.

Guided by the Ministry of Agriculture and designed by the Taiwan Florists Association, the National Day stage features more than 20 types of domestically produced floral materials and over 10 elite cultivars bred by domestic academic and research institutions, symbolizing hope and blessings. NCHU’s patented ivy cultivar “Pikaju” is the only university-bred variety in Taiwan invited to appear on the National Day stage for a second consecutive time, underscoring NCHU’s excellence in academic R&D and floral innovation.

Vibrant Foliage and Flexible Stems Reflect Taiwan’s Gentle Strength

Bred over many years by Associate Professor Yen-Ming Chen and his team at NCHU’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ivy “Pikaju” is distinguished by its bright foliage, clearly defined variegation, and a plant form that is both resilient and supple, combining ornamental appeal with strong environmental adaptability.

On this year’s National Day stage, “Pikaju”—with its glossy, full leaves—complements the ocean imagery expressed through blue-and-white 3D-printed structures, symbolizing the gentle yet steadfast strength of the Taiwanese people and celebrating a future illuminated by hope.

Yen-Ming Chen: “A Symbol of Optimism, Courage, and Mutual Support”

Associate Professor Yen-Ming Chen stated:
“The bright leaf color of ivy ‘Pikaju’ symbolizes the optimism and courage within Taiwanese people; its flexible stems reflect our spirit of moving forward with resilience and supporting one another in the face of challenges. Through this ivy—an emblem of vitality—we hope to bring blessings and positive energy, and to let the world see the power of Taiwan’s floriculture in innovation and humanistic care.”

Academia–Industry Collaboration: Floral Breeding Helps Taiwan Bloom on the Global Stage

This year’s National Day stage was jointly realized by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Taiwan Florists Association, integrating floral R&D outcomes from academic and research institutions nationwide to showcase Taiwan’s innovative capacity in the floriculture industry. Cultivars bred by domestic institutions featured in the display include:

• Anthurium “Tainong No. 9 – Little Fairy” (Floriculture Innovation Park)

• Anthurium “Kaohsiung No. 3 – Red Bell,” “Kaohsiung No. 5 – Venus,” and “Kaohsiung No. 6 – Mona Lisa” (Kaohsiung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station)

• Fern “Taitung No. 1” (Taitung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station)

• Phalaenopsis “HTM1951#19” (National Chiayi University)

To date, Taiwan has been granted 1,675 Plant Variety Rights (PVRs), including 1,327 in floriculture, accounting for nearly 80% of the total—demonstrating the strength and innovation of Taiwan’s floral R&D. Led by Associate Professor Yen-Ming Chen, the Floral Innovation and Breeding Laboratory has long focused on new cultivar development and academia–industry linkages. In addition to the poinsettia “Myth” series, thornless crown-of-thorns “Royal” series, begonia “Fairy Tale” series, and dianthus “Brilliant Red Nadeshiko,” ivy “Pikaju” represents the broader evolution of Taiwan’s floriculture—from ornamental aesthetics toward environmental greening and lifestyle design.

Flowers as Hope: A Shared Spirit of Inclusion and Resilience

The National Day floral design theme “Blooming Taiwan” not only celebrates the beauty of flowers, but also conveys the resilience and hope of people facing challenges. Ivy “Pikaju” embodies both innovative breeding achievements and Taiwan’s local spirit. Like the diverse communities and cultures on this island—grounded in mutual respect and shared prosperity—this blend of inclusiveness and perseverance enables Taiwan to shine with a distinctive brilliance on the world stage.

Article source: https://www2.nchu.edu.tw/news-detail/id/60510