There were a few of these plants next to each other, but not all of them had this bright purple coloration. I suppose there might be an acidic spot by the roots, but I’m not sure.
There were a few of these plants next to each other, but not all of them had this bright purple coloration. I suppose there might be an acidic spot by the roots, but I’m not sure.
Often, plants use a pigment called anthocyanin. This is used in flowers as an attractant for bees but also used in leaves as a sun screen. In intense light conditions the plant will use it to protect the interior vascular systems from sun damage.
Interesting - so maybe these pigments showed up in response to strong light?
They do! Might be that this plant has a genetic variegation that causes it to be more red than it’s neighbors. This plant is a delicious substitute for spinach by the way :)