Albino Zinnia? - Ask Extension
Hello,
I purchased a packet of seeds of non-gmo verified Zinnia Elegans. Many of them have started to sprout, but one is all white. It is continuing ...
Knowledgebase
Albino Zinnia? #864194
Asked April 11, 2024, 10:13 PM EDT
Hello,
I purchased a packet of seeds of non-gmo verified Zinnia Elegans. Many of them have started to sprout, but one is all white. It is continuing to grow. Everything I have read indicates that if it is albino, it will die because it is not producing chlorophyll. Does this appear to be an albino Zinnia? What else would cause it to grow white? It is grown in a controlled environment, all containers were rinsed in a bleach solution prior to use to kill any bacteria or fungus.
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Sarah,
Genetic flukes in plants can be fun when we come across them and they happen right where we can see them!
You’re correct, without chlorophyll, your cotyledons or seed leaves, will not be able to photosynthesize and they will die off shortly.
Here is more info and a fun science activity if you’d like to try something else, courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Enjoy those beautiful zinnia blooms this summer!
Jean P.
