Fascinating Fasciation

No wings in this post, but the topic is so interesting, and I don't want to forget it.  I read about "fasciation" last year and couldn't remember what it was called when I saw an example of it this afternoon at the Ashland Community Gardens.  This post is to help me remember!

Pink Coneflower (w/ fasciation)

Fasciation refers to a flattened or ribbon-like appearance.  Fasciation can occur on many different parts of a plant, from the stem to the flower, fruit, or even the roots.  It may be an inherited problem, caused by a gene, or it may be caused by a bacteria.  Whatever its cause, it's neat looking!  Watch for it!

The word fasciation comes from the Latin fascia which means "to fuse".

Pink Coneflower (normal structure)