What exactly is plant variegation and why does it happen?
Plant variegation is a phenomenon where certain parts of a plant exhibit a different colour or texture than the rest of the plant. This can be seen in the leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits of various species e.g. the infamous Monstera deliciosa 'Albo'. While variegation can be an attractive feature in ornamental plants, it can also be a sign of disease or environmental stress in other species. Variegated plants can also be trickier to care for, as the leaves contain less chlorophyll meaning that the plant needs higher levels of light. It can be difficult to find the balance between providing adequate light levels and scorching the sensitive variegated areas, e.g. large sections of albo (white) variegation (this is not the case with blister variegation, which doesn't affect chlorophyll levels). In this article, we will explore the causes of plant variegation.
- Genetic Mutation
The most common cause of plant variegation is a genetic mutation. This is where a change occurs in the plant's DNA that alters the way pigment is distributed throughout the plant. This can result in areas of the plant having a different colour or pattern than the rest of the plant. Genetic mutations can occur naturally or can be induced through plant breeding techniques.
- Viral Infection
A viral infection can also cause plant variegation. Some viruses can affect the pigmentation of a plant, resulting in areas of the plant having a different colour or pattern than the rest of the plant. The virus can be transmitted through insects or by contact with infected plant material.
- Environmental Stress
Environmental stress can also cause plant variegation. This can include exposure to extreme temperatures, drought, or nutrient deficiencies. When a plant is stressed, it may produce less chlorophyll, which can result in areas of the plant having a different colour or pattern than the rest of the plant.
- Grafting
Grafting is a technique used by horticulturists to propagate plants. This involves joining two different plants together, so they grow as one plant. When this is done, the two plants can sometimes merge their pigmentation, resulting in areas of the plant having a different colour or pattern than the rest of the plant.
- Chimera
A chimera is a plant that has two or more genetically distinct types of tissue growing together. This can result in areas of the plant having a different colour or pattern than the rest of the plant. Chimeras can occur naturally or can be induced through plant breeding techniques.
In conclusion, plant variegation can be caused by genetic mutation, viral infection, environmental stress, grafting, or chimera. While variegation can be an attractive feature in ornamental plants, it can also be a sign of disease or environmental stress in other species. Understanding the causes of plant variegation can help gardeners and horticulturists better care for their plants and appreciate their unique features.