Plant Cuttings

Category: plant cutting

  • Old year, new [plant] species…

    Old year, new [plant] species…

    In 2023, workers at Kew named 74 plants and 15 fungi, including unique species like the possibly-carnivorous Crepidorhopalon droseroides and the underground-flowering palm, Pinanga subterranea. The biology of those two new species is considered, highlighting the ongoing fascination with discoveries in the world of plants. The discovery of a new…

  • The amazing athel tamarisk

    The amazing athel tamarisk

    The post broadly considers the importance of water for plants. Specifically, it highlights the study by Al-Handawi et al. (2023) which investigated athel tamarisk and its ability to extract water from the atmosphere. That phenomenon has interesting biological consequences, and potential for water collection technologies. The post concludes with Mr.…

  • Concrete, grounds for improvement

    Concrete, grounds for improvement

    The use of coffee grounds in concrete enhances strength and sustainability. This breakthrough presents a solution that addresses concerns of building stability, such as those constructed with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

  • Plant carnivory round-up

    Plant carnivory round-up

    Mr Plant Cuttings shares some of 2023’s carnivorous plants studies. Items include a fungus aiding digestion in sundews, mathematical modelling revealing different pitcher shapes capture diverse prey, and facultative carnivory in the liana Triphyophyllum peltatum activated by phosphorus deficiency. Plus, some insights into Venus’ fly trap.

  • Can seaweed boost tobacco photosynthesis?

    Can seaweed boost tobacco photosynthesis?

    Researchers are working to increase photosynthesis efficiency in plants to support the growing global population. With insights into the structure of RubisCO in a red seaweed they have genetically-altered that enzyme in tobacco and improved its photosynthetic efficiency and enhanced its growth. It is anticipated that development of this approach…

  • Forensic botany of a murderer’s tree

    Forensic botany of a murderer’s tree

    This post concerns discrepancies in naming of a palo verde tree involved in a 1992 murder case. It highlights the importance of stating sources for scientific names used for such plants.

  • Under-appreciated plants: Moss

    Under-appreciated plants: Moss

    A comprehensive study conducted by an international team of researchers has underlined the vital role mosses play in supporting multiple ecosystem services, particularly in areas with low vascular-plant cover. Remarkably, mosses facilitate greater carbon sequestration, key nutrient pool sizes, and stronger control over soil-borne plant pathogens compared to bare soils.