Flavonoid Shifts During Developmental Stages of Spathiphyllum Inflorescences

Flavonoids of spadix and spathe samples representing 6 different stages of maturation were extracted in methanol and analyzed by paper chromatography. Although the flavonoid composition appeared similar for the different developmental spadix stages, flavonoid diversity increased during maturation. Similar results were obtained from spathe samples. The flavonoid chromatographic profile obtained with leaf blades also differed markedly from that of either the spathe or spadix. These preliminary chromatographic studies demonstrate phytochemical diversity not only between different plant organs but within the same organ at different developmental stages.