REVIEW ARTICLE Mechanisms and function of flower and inflorescence reversion

Flower and inflorescence reversion involve a switch from floral development back to vegetative develop-ment, thus rendering flowering a phase in an ongoing growth pattern rather than a terminal act of the meri-stem. Although it can be considered an unusual event, reversion raises questions about the nature and func-tion of flowering. It is linked to environmental conditions and is most often a response to conditions opposite to those that induce flowering. Research on molecular genetic mechanisms underlying plant development over the last 15 years has pinpointed some of the key genes involved in the transition to flowering and flower development. Such investigations have also uncovered mutations which reduce floral maintenance or alter th