A stylized representation of the structure of a flower in which the whorls of floral parts are shown as a series of concentric circles. All floral segments arising at the same level are placed, in their correct relative positions, in the same circle. When appropriate, fusion of parts is also indicated. The ovary is represented in cross section in the centre of the whorls. The bottom of the diagram represents the anterior side of the flower, i.e. the side furthest from the axis of the inflorescence. Any bracts subtending the flower are inserted at the base of the diagram, while the inflorescence axis is shown as a circle at the top (posterior) side of the diagram. Floral diagrams are usually presented in conjunction with a longitudinal section through the centre of the flower (see illustration).  |
