Flower Growth, Coloration and Petal Pigmentation in Four Lisianthus Cultivars.

Abstract

Floral flavonoid content in relation to petal color before and after anthesis in four cultivars of lisianthus [Eustoma grandiflorum (Raf.) Shinn.] were determined. 'Bridal Violet' and 'Asuka no Asa', 'Azuma no Yosooi', and 'Mickey Rose' were classified into delphinidin, pelargonidin, and cyanidin major types, respectively, from HPLC profiles ; peonidin and malvidin existed as minor components. Anthocyanin synthesis began before anthesis ; total anthocyanins tended to increase after anthesis. Whereas flavonol content reached its maximum before anthesis in all cultivars, as the lisianthus petals unfurled, other anthocyanidin(s) appeared, resulting in changes in anthocyanidin ratios. However, those ratios remained nearly constant after anthesis ; flower color did not change during flowering. With respect to pigment constitution, it was the first case that 'Mickey Rose' was found to be cyanidin dominant. Results on flavonol contents suggest that the copigment effect was not present in lisianthus cultivars.