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Leaf Transmutation
Researchers have successfully converted leaves into petals.
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Date: 02/15/01

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) have successfully converted leaves into petals. It has been almost a decade since scientists first converted flower organs into leaves, but until now, the reverse has not been true.

The crux of the discovery concerns three genes responsible for flower development and a new class of genes discovered by the UCSD scientists. When all five genes are turned on and expressed, petals develop in place of leaves.

Parts of a Flower

Flowers typically consist of four rings:
Outermost ring: Sepals

Next ring: Petals

Next Ring: Stamens - the male reproductive structures.

Inner Ring: Carpels (also called pistils) - the female reproductive structures.


"Arabidopsis plant. Four of the five genes needed to convert leaves into petals are turned on, leading to a partial conversion of vegetative leaves to petals."

Image credit Soraya Pelaz, UCSD.
"Arabidopsis plant. All five genes are expressed, resulting in the development of normal-appearing petals in place of leaves."

Image credit Soraya Pelaz, UCSD.


For some time, scientists have speculated that these flower parts are modified leaves. Until now attempts at conversion have not been successful.

Research Applications and Funding

This discovery raises interesting possibilities. The leaves of almost any plant could be converted into petals. A variety of ornamental commercial applications could be the result.

The research was sponsored by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

For additional information, see the UCSD original press release.

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