Probable transcription factor that promotes early floral meristem identity in synergy with APETALA1, FRUITFULL and LEAFY. Is required subsequently for the transition of an inflorescence meristem into a floral meristem. Seems to be partially redundant to the function of APETALA1. Positively regulates the APETALA1 and LEAFY expression. Homodimer capable of binding to CArG-box sequences. Expressed in young flower primordia. Expressed at an early stage of floral initiation. Mutations in the CAL gene result in a characteristic proliferation of inflorescence meristems in place of floral meristems. The fragment expressed in cal-5 mutant is homolog to the CAL proteins present in Brassica oleracea var. botrytis and may thus explain the 'cauliflower'-shaped floral meristem (PubMed:7824951).