Lycopene plant pigment, molecular model. Lycopene is the red carotenoid pigment found in tomatoes, berries, rose hips and flowers of the marigold (Calendula officinalis). It is thought to be a powerful antioxidant, particularly when cooked, and may help in preventing some types of cancer. This hydrocarbon molecule has the chemical formula C40H56. Atoms are represented as spheres and are colour-coded: carbon (C, grey) and hydrogen (H, turquoise).