Integrated transcriptome and metabolome profiling of Camellia reticulata reveal mechanisms of flower color differentiation

Camellia reticulata (Lindl.) has been cultivated for centuries in China resulting in evolution of diverse forms. Flower colors are one of the most prevalent ways that ornamental plants enhance their visual appeal. While,C. reticulata is mostly red-colored, and there are few accounts of color variations in the species. This research was performed de novo transcriptome and metabolome profiling, annotation, and bioinformatics analysis to understand the molecular mechanism of C. reticulata petal color formation and differentiation. The results of this study will aid in the breeding of cultivars with specific-flower colors.