Do plant patent applications require an abstract?

This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.

Yes, plant patent applications require an abstract when they are allowed. The MPEP 1611 clearly states: “All plant patent applications should contain an abstract when allowed.“

An abstract is a brief summary of the invention that helps readers quickly understand the nature and essence of the plant patent. This requirement aligns plant patent applications with other types of patent applications, which also typically require abstracts.