MAKASSAR, Indonesia May 31 2026 /Postharvest Metabo-Engineering/–Flowers are more than just beautiful decorations in nature. Their colors play an important role in attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting plant reproduction, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. Among ornamental plants, Bidens ferulifolia has gained attention because of its striking flower colors, ranging from bright yellow to red, cream, and even white combinations. Behind these beautiful colors lies a fascinating world of biochemistry that scientists are only beginning to fully understand.
An important scientific article titled “The (Bio)chemical Base of Flower Colour in Bidens ferulifolia” was published on 11 May 2022 in the journal Plants by the publisher MDPI. The study explored the biochemical mechanisms responsible for the different flower colors found in Bidens ferulifolia. Using advanced analytical techniques such as HPLC, mass spectrometry, enzyme activity analysis, and carotenoid profiling, researchers investigated how pigments like anthocyanins, flavonoids, anthochlors, and carotenoids interact to create the plant’s unique color variations.
Scientists discovered that flower color in Bidens ferulifolia depends on a complex combination of pigments and enzymes. Yellow flowers are mainly produced by anthochlors and flavones, while red shades appear because of anthocyanins. Meanwhile, carotenoids contribute additional yellow and orange tones. The researchers also found that certain enzymes control whether these pigments are produced or blocked. Even small differences in enzyme activity can dramatically change the final flower color. This explains why some flowers display sharp red-yellow patterns while others appear cream or pure white.
Interestingly, the study also showed that environmental conditions such as light intensity can influence flower pigmentation. High light exposure encourages stronger anthocyanin production, resulting in deeper red colors. This means that flower coloration is influenced not only by genetics but also by environmental factors. Such findings are important for ornamental plant breeders who want to develop new flower varieties with more attractive and unique color combinations.
This research is strongly connected to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land. Flowering plants are essential components of terrestrial ecosystems because they support pollinators, biodiversity, and ecological balance. Understanding flower pigmentation can help scientists and horticulturists protect plant diversity while developing more resilient ornamental plants. Biodiversity conservation is increasingly important as climate change and habitat destruction threaten many plant species around the world.
Beyond ecological importance, the study also has economic value. Ornamental plants represent a large global industry, and flower color strongly influences consumer preference and market demand. By understanding the biochemical pathways responsible for pigmentation, breeders can develop new flower varieties with rare and visually appealing colors. This can increase the commercial value of ornamental plants and create economic opportunities for horticultural industries and local growers.
The research on Bidens ferulifolia demonstrates that flowers are not simply beautiful natural objects, but also products of highly sophisticated biological processes. Every color seen by the human eye is the result of chemical reactions, enzymes, and environmental interactions working together inside plant tissues. Through modern plant science, researchers are uncovering the hidden chemistry that shapes the natural beauty surrounding us.
In the future, studies like this may contribute not only to the ornamental plant industry, but also to biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture. By combining science, nature, and innovation, researchers are helping humanity better understand and appreciate the extraordinary complexity of the plant world.
Reference:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101289
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