In an attempt to create a sentient cabbage Dr. Walter Cress unintentionally designs a strange disease that effects plants in the Brassicaceae family. After realizing his mistake, and for fear of what would come if he were to release this toxic chemical into the world, Dr. Cress burns down his entire lab and flees the country.
However he did not anticipate that his creation would survive on the flames and transmit to the large patches of shepherd’s purse growing in the surrounding fields.
Rats and Hats 