Study Identifies Carotenoids Responsible for Green Coloration in Hawaii Anthurium Spathes

Anthuriums are widely valued for their vibrant, glossy spathes, which are typically

associated with bold reds, orange, salmon, pinks, purples, lavender and whites.

However, green-spathed cultivars also represent a unique and high demand segment of

the ornamental market. Despite their popularity, the pigments contributing to green

coloration in anthurium spathes aside from chlorophyll have not been well- characterized.

In this short study, researchers analyzed pigment composition in green spathes of selected Hawaii anthurium cultivars. Using advanced analytical techniques, they identified the presence of specific carotenoid species. These pigments, commonly associated with yellow to orange hues in other flowers are produced alongside chlorophyll resulting in the unique green-leaved spathes of these cultivars.

The findings enhance understanding of pigment composition and color expression in anthurium, providing useful information for breeders seeking to develop new cultivars with novel or enhanced color traits. Improved knowledge of carotenoid profiles may also support more precise selection strategies in ornamental breeding programs.

This research contributes to the broader study of plant pigmentation and highlights the complexity of color development in ornamental species. By clarifying the role of carotenoids in green spathes, the study opens new opportunities for innovation in anthurium breeding and production.

As consumer demand continues to evolve toward unique and diverse ornamental plants, insights into pigment biology will remain an important driver of cultivar development and market differentiation.

According to Dr. Suzuki, the inspiration behind the current research

was to characterize and identify germplasm that would serve as sources for

development of new color classes of anthurium to support continued growth of the floral

and ornamental industry.

Dr. Jon Y. Suzuki, the leader of this study, is a Research Molecular Biologist with the Tropical Plant Genetic Resources and Disease Research Unit at the USDA ARS Daniel K. Inouye (DKI), U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center (PBARC) in Hilo, Hawaii. His current work includes developing and applying molecular, biochemical and biotechnological resources and techniques toward tropical ornamental and food crop improvement and disease mediation.

Members of the research team included Zahra Yusufali, Biological Science

Technician and Dr. Matthew Siderhurst, Research Biologist of the Tropical Crop and

Commodity Protection Unit, USDA ARS DKI US PBARC and Dr. Xiuxiu Sun, Post-

Harvest Physiologist, USDA ARS Southeastern Fruit & Tree Nut Research Station,

Byron, Georgia, as well as Dr. Teresita Amore, Associate Professor in Floriculture

Breeding in the Department of Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences, College of Tropical

Agriculture and Human Resilience, University of Hawaii at Manoa, who as developer of

numerous Anthurium varieties was instrumental in cultivar selection for our study.

The full article can be read on the ASHS HortScience electronic Journal website at: https://doi.org/10.21273/HORTSCI19025-25

Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.

Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community – scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. To learn more, visit ashs.org.