Science Digest reports that scientists at the University of Liverpool are investigating how a plant native to Madagascar could be used to help produce crops in harsh environmental conditions.
The plant, Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi (Common Names: South American air plant, lavender-scallops, gray sedum Family: Crassulaceae - orpine Family), is unique because, unlike normal plants, it captures most of its carbon dioxide at night when the air is cooler and more humid, making it 10 times more water-efficient than major crops such as wheat. Scientists will use the latest next-generation DNA sequencing to analyse the plant’s genetic code and understand how these plants function at night.
The project will generate a genome sequence database that will be used as an Internet resource for plant biologists throughout the world.
Read the full story at Science Digest.
I can tell you from experience that the plant is easy to grow, does well in less than dessert-like climates and is a very attractive plant in soft and subdued colors. It just so happens that I have a very healthy Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi growing on the deck of my San Francisco home - and my husband and I (as in same-sex husband) live in the fog belt atop one of San Francisco's many hills.
Resources:
Sloat Garden Center
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
James Hartwell, Ph.D. - School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool
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