I have two different types of plants and they both have pink in their leaves. I also have red and orange leaved plants. I believe the pink and green ones are colleese or something. Anyway I was wondering if anyone knew why there is pink and red in the leaves. I though chlorophyl was green and it coloured the leaves. I hope someone can help :)
The pink is anthocyanin, which probably performs a range of functions in leaves, including antioxidant properties, thermoregulation, and possibly also herbivore discouragement and ultraviolet protection. A lot of cultivated plants are selected for high anthocyanin production, because plants with pink and purple leaves are popular and sell well.
