A RATIONAL BASIS ATTEMPT FOR SELECTING NOVEL FLORICULTURAL CROPS: A CASE STUDY FOR NEW CALEDONIA

In the past, priorities for selecting species and genera having potential as new floricultural crops have not necessarily been established rationally. Here we propose a simple rational model for doing this and apply it to the New Caledonian flora. Different strategies are required depending on whether the target market is local or international. For the local market, the aim is to develop plants either for the landscape industry or for use in general public gardens, and the task is reasonably straightforward. It involves simply the domestication of showy species that are easily propagated and cultivated under local conditions. The international market is much more competitive and complex, and a more sophisticated procedure is required. A model is proposed that helps to rationalise the selection and prioritisation of genera and species for development. The model is based on a genus’ rate of endemism, the attractiveness of its species and the familiarity of taxa already known as ornamentals. The whole is then weighted depending on how easy the genus is to propagate and cultivate. Thus, a genus that is well diversified, that has a high proportion of endemic species, that includes a large number of showy species, and that is not already represented in the international market is perceived as having high ornamental potential. The model developed here has been inferred from experience but has yet to be been validated commercially so no doubt requires further adjustment. Nevertheless it makes a useful start in taking the first steps in providing a rational basis for selecting new ornamental plants. Based on the application of this model to the New Caledonian flora, the most promising genus emerging is Oxera. It fits well with the above selection criteria and most of its species are also easy to propagate and cultivate.