Plant secondary metabolites are small molecules and organic compounds that plants produce. They aren't directly involved in plant development, growth, and reproduction. Instead, they mediate functions that increase plant survival and fecundity.  The three main types of plant secondary metabolites are: Phenolics Phenolics are the most abundant secondary metabolites of plants. They range from simple molecules to highly polymerized substances. Terpenes Terpenes are a diverse group of more than 30,000 lipid-soluble compounds. They are the biggest group of secondary... Show more

Plant secondary metabolites are small molecules and organic compounds that plants produce. They aren't directly involved in plant development, growth, and reproduction. Instead, they mediate functions that increase plant survival and fecundity. 

The three main types of plant secondary metabolites are:
Phenolics
Phenolics are the most abundant secondary metabolites of plants. They range from simple molecules to highly polymerized substances.
Terpenes
Terpenes are a diverse group of more than 30,000 lipid-soluble compounds. They are the biggest group of secondary metabolites.
Nitrogen/sulfur-containing compounds
These compounds have anti-viral, anti-insect, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and herbicidal functions. 

Other examples of plant secondary metabolites include:
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are secondary metabolites that are responsible for the color, fragrance, and flavor characteristics of plants. They are also known as Vitamin P or citrin.
Alkaloids
Alkaloids are nitrogen-containing secondary metabolites. They include morphine and codeine.
Terpenoids
Terpenoids are the major class of secondary metabolites in plants. They are lipid-soluble and have vast structural diversity. 

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