CHIMERA
Identification
- Differently coloured zones (usually lacking chlorophyll or anthocyanin) in the leaves or other plant parts
- If a shoot is affected, all leaves and fruit will be affected
Often Confused With
Variegated leaves may resemble virus symptoms
Biology
A chimera is part of a vine comprised of 2 or more genetically different tissues. It is usually the result of a vegetative mutation. It may be expressed as leaves that are bigger, smaller or of a different shape, variation in growth habit (more upright, more compact, shorter internodes), colour (absence of chlorophyll or anthocyanin, teinturier), or flavour (e.g. Chardonnay vs. Chardonnay musqué).
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