Rhizome‐induction activity of chiral 2‐α‐methylbenzylamino‐4‐alkylamino‐6‐chloro‐1, 3, 5‐triazines in <i>Cyperus serotinus</i> Rottb.

Abstract

Abstract A cytokinin‐like effect of chiral 2‐α‐methylbenzylamino‐4‐alkylamino‐6‐chloro‐1,3,5‐triazines was found using a rhizome‐inducing assay with Cyperus serotinus Rottb. tubers. C. serotinus tubers germinated in distilled water yielded plantlets with roots and leaves. Secondary rhizomes were normally not observed within the regular 14‐day incubation time in water culture, whereas after increasing incubation periods a very short rhizome appeared (controls). 6‐Benzylaminopurine (BA) significantly stimulated rhizome induction, while other plant hormones were inactive. The ( R )‐isomers of the 1, 3, 5‐triazine compounds also stimulated induction of the rhizomes, whereas the ( S )‐isomers did not. The described rhizome induction system seems to be suitable as a cytokinin bioassay. The ( R )‐1, 3, 5‐triazine compounds showing rhizome‐inducing activity (RI activity) inhibited root formation and plant growth at high concentrations with symptoms which were very similar to those of BA. Therefore, the ( R )‐isomers appear to act as cytokinins in the rhizome induction assay.