Co-Authors:
Nothamann, J., Agricultural Research Organisation, Division of Vegetable Crops, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Abstract:
The morphogenesis of a malformation occurring in cos lettuce heads (Lactuca sativa L. cv. romana) during and at the end of the heading period, is described. Abnormal leaf growth resulted in twisting of the midrib of the affected leaf around its own axis, giving the leaf a spiral-like look. Twisting began at the outer leaves and then, mainly by affecting successive or sometimes alternating leaves, spread inwards in the direction to the younger leaves. Accelerated midrib elongation accompanied leaf twisting. The external appearance of this malformation was influenced by the location and number of the twisted leaves, and by the degree of twisting of the individual leaves. © 1976 Annals of Botany Company.