Photosynthetic Efficiency, and Photodamage by UV and Visible Radiation, in Red versus Green Leaf Coleus Varieties.

The maximum quantum yield for photosynthetic O2 evolution in red leaf coleus varieties having anthocyanin in their upper epidermis is much lower in green light and slightly lower in white light than in a green leaf variety lacking anthocyanin. A similar degree of photoinhibition occurred under excess visible light in the red versus green varieties; whereas, the red leaf varieties were less damaged by UV-B and UV-C radiation suggesting protection by anthocyanin in their epidermal tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]