Probable transcription factor that promotes early floral meristem identity in synergy with APETALA1. Is required subsequently for the transition of an inflorescence meristem into a floral meristem, by an immediate upstream regulation of the ABC classes of floral homeotic genes. Activates directly APETALA1, CAULIFLOWER and AGAMOUS, and indirectly APETALA3 and PISTILLATA with the cooperation of UFO. Forms homodimer when associated to DNA. Interacts with SYD and BRM. Expressed uniformly throughout the young floral primordia. Expressed at an early stage of floral initiation. Positively regulated by CAULIFLOWER and APETALA1. Down-regulated by TFL1. Mutations in the LEAFY gene result in the complete transformation of the first few flowers into leaves with associated shoots. Belongs to the FLO/LFY family. Extended C-terminus.