Beautiful quirks

by Amy Scott, Visitor Services Coordinator

Is there a Punnett square for this?  Alas, I do not know. I never excelled in the subjects of Botany or Genetics. What I do know is that mutations occurring in the plant world can result in visually stunning anomalies. Take this sweet little tulip I picked from the yard. See how one of the leaves has sprouted two velvety red petals that curl up like ribbons? If you have ever been fortunate enough to find a four-leaf clover, you too have had an encounter with a plant mutation. Take a look at this Flickr photo gallery of some other mutant flowers whose spunk and originality will surprise and delight you.