Variegation is a term that describes a leaf or flower that has two or more colors in a distinct alternating pattern.
In some cases, variegation is caused by a mutation in the meristem that results in a chimera.
Other sources of variegation include:
- Pattern variegation
- Transposons
- Pathogen infection
Pattern variegation is a genetic trait of the cultivar.
It is an inherited trait and can be fixed by selection and seed propagation.
The pattern is due to different cells in a tissue expressing color genes. This is not a chimera
Caladium
Lily
One kind of pattern variegation is a repeating striped pattern like is seen in grasses and pines.
Pinus densiflora 'Oculus-draconis' Eye of the dragon red pine
Miscanthus sinensis 'Zebrinus' Zebra grass
A transposon is a movable genetic element. Transposons are also called jumping genes.
They can randomly move about the chromosome creating genetic mosaics.
They were discovered by Barbara McClintock working with Indian corn.
Transposons can cause spectacular variegation in flowers and leaves.
The effect is splashes of color.
They can be distinguished from chimeras because the variegation pattern is inherited from seed.
Verbena
Hypericum
Barberry
Variegation can also occur when a plant is infected with a virus that creates the differences in color.
In some cases they cause a variegated leaf or flower color and are perpetuated during propagation.
Leaf variegation in Abutilon
Floral variegation in Camellia
At one time, variegation in tulips was caused by a viral infection.
This was caused tulip breaks and was the cause for tulipomania in the Netherlands.
