| Term | Definition |
| auxin (IAA) | stimulates stem elongation, root growth, cell differentiation, and branching; regulates development of fruit; enhances apical dominance; functions in phototropism and gravitropism; promotes xylem differentiation; retards leaf abscission |
| cytokinins | affect root growth and differentiation; stimulate cell division and growth; stimulate germination; delay senescence |
| gibberellins | promote seed and bud germination, stem elongation, and leaf growth; stimulate flowering and development of fruit; affect root growth and differentiation |
| brassinosteroids | inhibit root growth; retard leaf absciccion, promote xylem differentiation |
| abscicic acid | inhibits growth; closes stomata during water stress; promotes seed dormancy |
| ethylene | promotes fruit ripening, opposes some auxin effects; promotes or inhibits growth and development of roots, leaves, and flowers, depending on species |