Why two plants of the same species can look and act entirely differently

Science · Published 8 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In the animal kingdom, sexual dimorphism is common, but some plants take this to an extreme. Beyond just appearance, plants of the same species can possess vastly different chemical identities, affecting everything from their scent to their toxicity. This hidden diversity challenges how we classify the natural world.

In many plant species, males and females can look remarkably different from one another. This phenomenon, known as sexual dimorphism, is well-documented in animals like peacocks, but certain plant genera exhibit extreme versions of this trait. For instance, researchers have studied extreme leaf dimorphism within the woody, dioecious genus Leucadendron to understand the mechanisms behind these striking physical differences.

Beyond physical appearance, a species can be divided by its chemistry. These variations are known as chemotypes—groups of plants within a single species that differ in specific chemical compounds, such as alkaloids or terpenoids. These chemicals are vital for survival, as plants use them to influence pathogens or herbivores. While these differences are largely driven by genetics, environmental conditions can further refine a plant's precise chemical profile.

The distinction is not always easy to define. According to Dr Caroline Müller, a professor and primary researcher for a new paper in Trends in Plant Science, the label 'chemotype' has frequently lacked uniform standards. She observes that it often failed to clarify which specific chemical group or plant part was under investigation. This is crucial because different organs, such as leaves, flowers, or roots, can possess entirely different chemical profiles.

This chemical nuance has significant real-world implications for medicine and agriculture. For example, the common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) was historically used as a 'worm herb' to treat intestinal worms, yet its toxicity levels vary depending on the chemotype. Similarly, different chemotypes of cannabis can differ significantly in their THC content, leading to very different effects. Understanding these individual differences may eventually help researchers select more resilient crops for changing environments.

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