perianth
/'periænθ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The collective term for the outer, non-reproductive parts of a flower: The perianth consists of the calyx (sepals) and the corolla (petals), which together enclose and protect the stamens and pistils during the bud stage.
Usage
- The term "perianth" is used in botanical contexts to describe the floral envelope. It is a technical term primarily found in scientific writing, botany textbooks, and detailed plant descriptions.
- It refers to the structure as a whole. When the sepals and petals are similar in appearance, the individual segments may be called "tepals."
Examples
- Noun:
- The showy perianth of the lily attracts pollinators.
- In some flowers, like tulips, the perianth parts are undifferentiated and are referred to as tepals.
- Botanists study the evolution of the perianth structure across different plant families.
Advanced Usage
- "Perianth segments": A phrase used when referring to the individual parts (sepals or petals/tepals) that make up the perianth.
- The number of perianth segments can be a key identifying feature.
Variants and Related Words
- Tepal (n): A term for an undifferentiated perianth segment, used when sepals and petals look similar, as in lilies or magnolias.
- Calyx (n): The collective term for all the sepals of a flower, forming the outer whorl of the perianth.
- Corolla (n): The collective term for all the petals of a flower, forming the inner whorl of the perianth.
- Floral envelope (n): A descriptive synonym for the perianth.
Synonyms
- Floral envelope: A less common but descriptive synonym.
- Perigone: An older or alternative botanical term with the same meaning.
Related Phrases / Terms
- Perianth tube: A structure formed when the bases of the perianth segments are fused into a tube.
- The fragrance comes from the nectar within the perianth tube.
Noun
- collective term for the outer parts of a flower consisting of the calyx and corolla and enclosing the stamens and pistils