Biosynthetic Linkage between the Color and Scent of Flowers: A Review

Flower color and fragrance are important traits that give ornamental plants their value. Thesynergistic combination of flower color and scent attracts pollinators with specific preferences. Inthis study, we discuss the connection between biosynthetic pathways leading to color and scent inflowers. Pigments and scent compounds in flowers vary in phenol and terpene contents, providingmany combinations of color and scent. Many floral pigments and scent compounds share the samebiosynthetic pathways, including the shikimate (SA), methylerythritol 4-phosphate (MEP), andmevalonate (MVA) pathways. In addition to reviewing the biosynthesis, functions, and changes infloral color and scent in relation to abiotic factors, we suggest a novel schematic diagram of theshared biosynthetic pathways in flowering plants for floral pigments and scent compoundsclassified as phenolics and terpenes. Although more information is still needed, it seems clear thatthe color and scent of flowers have a biochemical connection and are a selective choice. Therefore,a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical linkage between the color and fragrance offlowers is critical for developing new varieties with novel traits. KCI Citation Count: 0