Integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics analyses provide insights into the mechanisms of capitulum architecture in Argyranthemum frutescens (Asteraceae)

•The mechanisms underlying capitulum architecture of A. frutescens was explored.•Auxin and ABA concentration co-regulate capitulum development of A. frutescens.•Cuticle composition of A. frutescens florets shape the petal surface and morphology.•TCP, WOX and MADS are involved in the development of florets in A. frutescens.•Intron was lost in afcyc2a of A. frutescens.