This dye is notable for its solvatochromic properties, meaning it changes color depending on the solvent in which it is dissolved.

It has one of the largest solvatochromic effects ever observed,[1] with color varying across the entire visible spectrum.

[2] This chemical is named for Christian Reichardt [de], who developed it when working as a doctoral student in the lab of Karl Dimroth [de].

The names also sometimes refer to some close chemical analogs, in particular, the one having para substituted tert-butyl groups on the phenyl rings.

[3] A newer[clarification needed] synthesis is:[4] 2,6-Diphenylphenol is nitrated with diluted nitric acid to 4-nitro-2,6-diphenylphenol and subsequently reduced with sodium dithionite to the amine.