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6-Benzyladenine, also called 6-benzylaminopurine, is a synthetic cytokinin that stimulates cell division in plants. Among other actions, it spurs plant growth, sets blossoms, and improves fruit quality.
Cytokinins are in the plant growth hormone family. As part of his pioneering research in plant growth regulators, plant physiologist Folke K. Skoog at the University of Wisconsin鈥揗adison synthesized 6-benzyladenine and demonstrated its efficacy.
In a recent C&EN 鈥淧eriodic Graphics鈥� page, author Andy Brunning included 6-benzyladenine in a roundup of how 鈥渇lower food鈥� helps to聽. He notes that the growth regulator鈥檚 contribution to preservation is maintaining petal colors. 6-Benzyladenine is similarly used to extend the shelf lives of broccoli florets and shredded cabbage to make them more attractive to customers.
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