Chemical variation within and between individuals ofPlantago lanceolata (Plantaginaceae)

Variation in concentrations of leaf nitrogen and iridoid glycosides was examined in replicate plants of five genotypes ofPlantago lanceolata (Plantaginaceae) grown in an experimental garden. Nitrogen concentration and iridoid glycoside concentration were affected by leaf age. New leaves had nitrogen concentrations 1.7 to 2.7 times higher than mature leaves. Catalpol concentration was highest in new and intermediate-aged leaves. The concentration of aucubin, the biosynthetic precursor to catalpol, was higher in intermediate-aged leaves than in mature leaves, in three of five genotypes. Consequently, the proportion of aucubin relative to total iridoid glycosides increased as leaves aged. Concentration of iridoid glycosides was not correlated with plant size. Plant genotype significantly affected concentration of nitrogen and iridoid glycosides, as well as plant size. Thus, major indicators of hostplant quality for insect herbivores varied considerably both within and among plant genotypes and individuals.