MnSO4 – manganese(II) sulfate – is a powdery substance with colorless crystals in its pure form. It forms crystallohydrates of varying shades of pink with one, four, five, and seven water molecules. Manganese(II) sulfate is a valuable long-acting fertilizer – it contains manganese and sulfur in a soluble form that plants can easily digest. Plants need manganese to help them absorb nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, as well as aid in the process of photosynthesis. MnSO4 is also a component in dyes used to decorate textiles and porcelain.