Multidimensional analysis of floral scent emission patterns in Phalaenopsis ‘Chanel’

Phalaenopsis spp. is known as the best-selling potted flower in the world, while only a few cultivars possess floral scent, and the analysis of floral scent emission is limited. In present study, Phalaenopsis ‘Chanel’ with sweet and pleasant floral scent was used to explore the floral scent emission pattern by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 21 VOCs were detected in blooming flowers, among which monoterpene linalool with an exceptional odor activity value of 1443.5 was identified as the vital VOC determining the aromatic profile of Phal. ‘Chanel’. The scent emission of Phal. ‘Chanel’ was multi-dimensionally regulated by spatial distribution and temporal dynamics. The scent emission pattern in spatial distribution was that the highest concentrations of both total VOCs and linalool were localized within the labellum, identifying it as the most fragrant floral structure. In the temporal dynamic pattern, the scent emission varied with floral development and circadian rhythm, and peaked in the bloom stage, especially on the 5th day after bloom (DAB) between 9:00 am and 11:00 am. Overall, the floral scent emission in Phal. ‘Chanel’ was dominated by linalool, and exhibited the spatiotemporal dynamics.