PBR for Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’ and Cotinus coggygria’ Young Lady’ extended until the end of 2027

Cotinus coggygria ‘Young Lady’.

IJSSELSTEIN, Netherlands: On 15 November 2021, a new regulation (EU) 2021/1873 entered into force, extending the duration of Community Plant Variety Rights (CPVR) for Asparagus, flower bulbs, small fruit and woody ornamentals from 25 to 30 years.

Weigelia florida ‘Alexandra’.

The extension of the protection period is deemed justified given the technical difficulties in breeding due to ‘complex genetic backgrounds’ and slow or technically complicated reproduction in these particular species and groups of species. An account is also taken of the fact that, once plant variety rights have been granted, it often takes years for the plants of these species and groups of species to multiply and reach the numbers necessary to generate a reasonable income. As a result, right-holders only enjoy a limited period to generate income.

According to Royalty management agency Plantipp, the extension also applies to varieties that already have EU plant breeders’ rights. This means that the EU PBR of, among others, Weigela florida ‘Alexandra’ and Cotinus coggygria ‘Young Lady’, are now valid until the end of 2027.