Discover the fascinating world of the Wisconsin Fast Plant, a remarkable tool for hands-on learning and scientific exploration. Developed in the 1980s by Professor Paul H. Williams of the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Department of Plant Pathology, this plant was selectively bred to have a dramatically shortened life cycle. Through 20 years of meticulous planting, growing, and selection, its original six-month life cycle was reduced to just five weeks. Further refinement ensured uniformity in flowering time, size, and growth conditions, making it ideal for classroom and research applications. The Wisconsin Fast Plant was named to honor its development at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Standing "on the shoulders of giants," the Wisconsin Fast Plant serves as an exceptional launching point for investigations into plant biology. Over this six-week course, students will grow their own fast plants and explore key stages of the plant life cycle, including germination, the seedling stage, vegetative growth, flowering, pollination, and seed production.
Beyond its practical applications, this plant shares about 20–60% of its genes with humans in areas related to basic cellular functions, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life.
This course not only provides an opportunity to study plants but also inspires deeper wisdom about biology and our place in the natural world. Sign up now to grow, learn, and discover!