Tulip breaking is a phenomena caused by a virus spread by aphids. It causes a flower's undertones to show in irregular streaks. In the 1600s this colorful effect was very desired. Nowadays the same result is achieved through planting Rembrandt Tulips
I had no idea a virus could cause these streaks. I just thought it came about through selective tulip breeding (is that what it is called in horticulture?).
That is how the modern day Rembrandt Tulips came to be! They're a fairly modern plant courtesy of selective breeding. The virus was just the inspiration for the effect.
Plant viruses are so fascinating to me. (Admittedly they are rather annoying in practice) but learning about the effects of viruses is extraordinarily interesting.
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