From Gene to Bloom: Unlocking Ornamental Plant Potential Through Genomic Technologies

Abstract

Ornamental plants represent an economically and culturally important component of horticulture, yet their improvement has historically relied mainly on phenotypic selection with limited mechanistic understanding. This review synthesises how genomic technologies are expanding knowledge of ornamental plant biology and supporting breeding practice. It considers reference genome resources for major ornamental taxa, including rose, chrysanthemum, petunia, orchid, carnation, and morning glory, and examines how these resources clarify the genetic and regulatory basis of commercially important traits. Particular attention is given to floral colour, form, fragrance, post-harvest longevity, and stress-related adaptation, with emphasis on anthocyanin, carotenoid, phenylpropanoid, MADS-box, and ethylene-related pathways. The review also evaluates transcriptomics, epigenomics, molecular markers, linkage mapping, genome-wide association studies, marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, transgenic approaches, RNA interference, and CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing. These tools have improved trait discovery and created opportunities for more targeted cultivar development, although their translation remains uneven across genera. Persistent constraints include polyploid genome complexity, large and repetitive genomes, limited transformation and regeneration systems, multigenic trait architecture, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and insufficient genomic resources for several commercially important ornamentals. The review concludes that genomic technologies can strengthen ornamental breeding when supported by reliable phenotyping, validated trait associations, appropriate regulatory pathways, and sustained collaboration between research and commercial breeding sectors.