Pedicel
/ˈpɛdɪsɛl/
Definition
Pedicel refers to the small stalk that supports a single flower, fruit, or seed-bearing structure within an inflorescence, which is a cluster of flowers. It attaches that individual unit to the main stem or to a larger flower stalk called the peduncle. The term helps distinguish the stalk of one flower or fruit from the stalk of an entire flower cluster.
Function in Plants
- Flower display: By holding an individual flower away from the main stem or cluster axis, pedicel can improve spacing, exposure to pollinators, and access to light and air.
- Fruit support: After pollination, pedicel often remains attached and supports the developing fruit, helping position it for seed dispersal and affecting how the fruit hangs or is presented.
- Identification clues: Length, thickness, hairiness, and angle are useful characters in plant identification. Botanists often compare these traits when separating similar species or describing varieties.
- Response after flowering: In some plants, pedicel changes as flowering ends, becoming elongated, curved, or stiffer during fruit development. These shifts can alter the shape of the whole inflorescence, the flower cluster.
Related Terms
Peduncle
Peduncle refers to the main stalk that supports a flower, a cluster of flowers, or a fruiting structure. It arises from…
Inflorescence
Inflorescence refers to the arrangement of flowers on a plant, or the complete flowering structure that bears a cluster…
Raceme
Raceme refers to a type of flower cluster, or inflorescence, with multiple stalked flowers attached along an elongated…
Panicle
Panicle refers to a branched flower cluster, or inflorescence, with a main stem and side branches that bear smaller…
Umbel
Umbel refers to a flower-cluster type, or inflorescence, in which several flower stalks arise from a single point at…
Spike
Spike refers to a type of inflorescence, or flower cluster, in which individual flowers are attached directly to the…
Rachis
Rachis is the main axis of a compound structure in plants, especially the central stem-like part of a compound leaf or…