The reproductive unit of the angiosperms. It consists of microsporo-phylls (stamens) and megasporophylls (carpels) concentrated on a terminal apex of limited growth. The unit comprises a central axis or * receptacle , and usually nonessential floral parts (the * sepals and * petals ) surrounding the essential floral parts, the * stamens and * carpels. The arrangement of floral parts within the flower is usually related to the method of pollination and seed dispersal. The essential floral parts are involved in seed production, and the female parts persist after fertilization to form the fruit. The nonessential parts may be incorporated into the fruit after fertilization but more usually senesce and disintegrate. See also inflorescence. |
