Abnormalities in pepper (Capsicum annuum) flowers induced by gibberellic acid

Young pepper plants treated with gibberellic acid (GA3) before the initiation of floral organs produced abnormalities in flowers subsequently formed. The development of petals and stamens was affected by GA3, but sepals and the gynoecium were insensitive to the treatment. The effect on petals was on the unrolling of organs but stamen development was affected more dramatically. GA3 caused abnormalities in pollen development and induced the carpelization of stamens. The expression of feminization of stamens ranged from the production of a few external ovules to a complete transformation of a stamen to a carpel with ovary, style, and stigma. In some instances, the growth of stamens was also inhibited. GA3 also induced supernumerary organs in flowers; all of which were "carpel-like." These and other observations are discussed in relation to the hormonal status and the genetic make-up of plants.