Exactly a year ago, 20th April 2012, I blogged about mutant dandelions. They’re actually fasciated (crested) as a result of being attacked by something such as a virus or insect or even machinery, although genetics and even radiation can possibly play a part. We’re testing the genetic theory. Rors and I have collected some seeds from a few specimens to cultivate. Rors is, for reasons best known to himself, starting his off in the rainwater that’s collected in our retired wheelbarrow near the polytunnel. I’ve put mine in a seed tray of compost to see what grows from them.

Anyway, we seem to have more mutant dandelions than ever this year. Here a dozen different ones I found during a quick five minute stroll through one of our fields. I’ve since noticed literally hundreds more.

fasciated1

fasciated2

fasciated3

fasciated4

fasciated5

fasciated6

fasciated7

fasciated8

fasciated9

fasciated10

fasciated11

fasciation12

Definitely freaky don’t you think?

And if you find fasciated dandelions as fascinating as I do then check out these other blogs about them.

http://davehubbleecology.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/keep-feeling-fasciation.html

http://www.squidoo.com/my-mutant-dandelions