Hibiscus pigment, a specific stain for nuclear chromatin

ABSTRACT

A new nuclear stain was prepared as a crude extract of Hibiscus subdariffa, and was found to have a wide application on different types of cells. The stain works at an acid PH [2.0], Chromatin stained red when treated directly with the extract, and turned blue when this was followed by lead nitrate. Methods of staining and purification of an acetone insoluble, but water sluble, crystalline fraction of the red pigment of hibiscus flower have been described and called [Hibiscin]