Re: Acanthus mollis
E.Pizzi@agora.stm.it wrote:
> I wonder if it could be ultra-violet rays which have caused damage...
>
What seems to have occurred is some genetic mutation in the reproductive
cells which has knocked out the chlorophyll-forming capacity in the
offspring. This is quite a common occurrence, especially in some
highly-bred ornamentals, such as several striped forms of the NZ flax.
However, mutations in general seem to have happened ever since there
were plants and certainly do not need any intervention on the part of
man (direct or indirect) to account for them.
What causes the majority of these changes is not known, but increasing
UV is quite a likely agent.
Personally, knowing the usual uncontrolled spread of this species, I
would welcome any mechanism which would dispose of the seedlings, as
long as the parent remains in good health. In my garden I am forced to
control this handsome thug by removing the flower spikes as soon as the
blossoms fade.
Moira
--
Tony & Moira Ryan <theryans@xtra.co.nz>
Wainuiomata,
New Zealand (astride the "Ring of Fire" in the SW Pacific).
