A crop species carries a mutation in the receptor for brassinosteroids. Laboratory analysis shows that the plant synthesizes normal levels of brassinosteroid hormones, but the signaling pathway cannot be activated. Which phenotype would most likely result?

• A. Short stems and reduced cell expansion
• B. Premature fruit ripening and leaf drop
• C. Constant opening of stomata during drought
• D. Excessive apical dominance and suppressed branching