Synthesis of pungenin, a foliar constituent of some spruce species, and investigation of its efficacy as a feeding deterrent for spruce budworm [Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem.)].

Pungenin was synthesized from 3,4-dihydroxyacetophenone by a short sequence involving manipulation of protecting groups on the 3 and 4 hydroxyl functions. Bioassays indicated that the glucoside is a modest feeding deterrent for sixth-instar spruce budworm larvae, but it does not appear to retard the development of small larvae or lead to increased mortality.