Category: Flowers

Flower, The reproductive part of any flowering plant (angiosperm). Commonly, the term is applied especially when part or all of a reproductive structure has a distinct color and appearance. Flowers exhibit a multitude of combinations of colors, sizes, forms, and anatomical arrangements. In some plants, the individual flowers are very small and grow in separate clusters (inflorescences). Each flower consists of an inflorescence bearing the essential reproductive organs (male and/or female stamens) and often accessory organs (sepals and petals); the latter can be used both to attract pollinators (see pollination) and to protect vital organs. The floral parts are usually arrayed but sometimes spirally shaped. Four distinct wreaths are commonly encountered: the outer sepal (sepal), corolla (petal), androecium (stamens), and central, gynoecium (pistil). Sepals are usually green and often resemble reduced pepper leaves; The petals are often colorful and showy. Pollen is produced in the stamens. A pollen-receiving stigma is located at the top of each pistil. The pistil is made up of one or more carpels, surrounding an ovary that contains ovules or seeds. After fertilization, the ovary enlarges to form a fruit. Flowers have been a symbol of beauty in most of the world’s civilizations, and giving flowers remains one of the most popular ways of socializing.