Well, you'd think that something would come through from the celery, but it doesn't look (or smell) like it.
This lovely red rose has a celery gene inside it, and researchers at North Carolina State University say it's intended to help fight petal blight and extend the "vase life" of the flower.
According to Dr. John Williamson, the gene is "naturally found in many plants, but it's uncertain whether the rose already has it." If it does, says Williamson, it doesn't produce enough of a particular enzyme to help it fight off the disease.
The research is just part of NC State's efforts to produce a better rose. The goal is to find a rose that can last for three to four weeks after it's been harvested. If they're successful, maybe the price of those Valentine's Day roses will begin to edge down a bit.
(photo: Becky Kirkland, NC State University)
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