What makes flowers different colors?
The color of a flower is a reflection of the pigments contain within the cells of the plant. Light reflects on the pigments and our eyes interpret that reflection as color. There are four types of pigments: anthocyanidins, flavones, carotenes, and chlorophyll. Different combinations of these pigments create different shades of colors, essentially a limitless palate.AnthocyanidinsAnthocyanidins are red, blue, and purple pigments. They are found in geraniums, day lilies, violas and delphiniums.FlavonesFlavones, or flavonoids, produce pale yellow, as well as colors not visible to the human eye. They are found in roses.CarotenesCarotenes, or carotenoids, produce yellow and orange colors. They are found in marigolds and sunflowers.ChlorophyllChlorophyll produces green and is found in all plants.Color ChangesThere are several reasons that the color of a flower can change. Acidity is a primary causes of color change. Acidity level (pH) can interact with the pigments at a cellular level and al
