FLAVONOID PIGMENTATION IN SEDGES (CYPERACEAE)

A survey of pigmented leaf, inflorescence or seed of eighteen species representing fifteen genera of the Cyperaceae failed to reveal the presence of any of the common anthocyanins, earlier reported as being widespread in the supposedly related grasses (Poaceae). Instead, a new pigment, carexidin (probably a 3-desoxyanthocyanidin), was found in three species and the yellow aurone aureusidin, not previously known in the monocotyledons, was found in eight species. In addition, the chalcone okanin has been detected in the seed of Kyllinga. The taxonomic and phyletic significance of these results are discussed in relation to the existing classification of the grasses and sedges. © 1970.