What does anthocyanin do in plants?

Anthocyanins have many functions in plants. First they are brightly pigmented molecules, used in flowers to attract pollinators. They are also responsible for the color in leaves during autumn. Because they are pigmented, they can act as a plant's "sunscreen" protecting it from bleaching by the sun. Lastly, anthocyanins are powerfulantioxidants, which protect plants from the damage of oxygen radicals.