MYB17‐DFR/LDOX Module Positively Regulates Cyanidin Deposition in <i>Cinnamomum Camphora</i>

Cinnamomum camphora is a cornerstone ornamental tree species in southern China, valued for its evergreen foliage and distinctive scent. However, the uniformly green foliage and brown bark limit its landscaping values. In this study, we characterised a coloured camphor variety, 'Gantong 1', and revealed cyanidin content as the critical factor responsible for its stem coloration. Correlation analysis indicated that the transcription factor CcMYB17 plays a crucial role in cyanidin accumulation. We functionally validated CcMYB17 through yeast one-hybrid assays, luciferase reporter assays and multi-omics analysis in a poplar model system. Our results demonstrate that CcMYB17 regulates the synergistic accumulation of cyanidin and delphinidin by activating key anthocyanin biosynthesis genes, specifically CcDFR and CcLDOX. This systematic elucidation of the colour mechanism 'Gantong 1' and the functional role of CcMYB17 deepens our understanding of ornamental trait improvement in C. camphora. It provides a foundation for molecular-assisted breeding of coloured woody trees.