Role of somatic mutations in the evolution of higher plants

Because of the unique developmental features of higher plants, somatic mutations may enter the germline and be transmitted to the progeny. In the present review, the role of somatic mutations in higher plant evolution is documented by taking into account the following topics: somatic gene mutations and chromosome structural changes; aneusomaty; bud sports; periclinal chimeras; somatic chromosome doubling; virus infection; effects of environment and soil conditions; mutagenic plant products.