Exploiting genes and functional diversity of chlorogenic acid and luteolin biosyntheses in Lonicera japonica and their substitutes

► Twelve genes in Lonicera japonica were reported for the first time. ► All genes in L. hypoglauca and L. macranthoides were reported for the first time. ► The first step of biosynthesis controls the chlorogenic acid in the bud. ► Two steps control the luteolin content in the bud. ► A different medical usage of species was according to gene duplication.