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Mystery of begonia's bizarre blue leaves solved

Begonias with striking blue leaves may represent a next step in plant evolution that puts them ahead of their ordinary green neighbours, research suggests.

The blue colour results from a super-efficient form of photosynthesis that allows them to use light other plants reject.

These findings could help scientists develop light-harvesting devices to make better electronics.

There are over 1,500 species of begonia, but the biological function of the bright blue sheen has mystified scientists for decades.

Now it has been found the leaves only develop this sheen when put in almost dark conditions - and in bright light the sheen slowly disappears.

The flowers use their unusual leaves to harness what little light there is.

Read more at Daily Mail Online
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