H. C. Wu, E. S. Toit, C. Reinhardt
May 31, 2007
Citations
3
Influential Citations
40
Citations
Journal
Plant Growth Regulation
Abstract
Analysis of stem extracts identified large quantities of 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid and other similar phenolics. The exogenous application of 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid on Protea cynaroides explants in vitro significantly increased the root mass at 100 mg l−1, but not at lower concentrations, while root inhibition was observed at 500 mg l−1. HPLC analysis of cuttings during vegetative propagation showed a considerable increase in 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid levels from initial planting to when root formation took place, indicating for the first time that 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid may be an important phenolic compound in regulating root formation in P. cynaroides cuttings. HPLC analysis also identified caffeic, ferulic, gallic and salicylic acids in the cuttings.