Sepal
/ˈsiːpəl/
Definition
Sepal refers to one of the outermost, usually leaf-like parts of a flower. A sepal is part of the calyx, the ring of sepals at the flower’s base, and often protects the developing bud before it opens. Sepals are commonly green, but in some plants they are colored and petal-like. They differ from petals by their position and their usual protective role rather than attracting pollinators.
Function in Plants
- Bud protection: Before a flower opens, sepal helps shield the developing petals, stamens, and pistil from drying, mechanical injury, and some feeding damage.
- Support after opening: In many species, sepal continues to support the flower at its base and can help hold the bloom in position while pollination takes place.
- Clue for identification: The number, size, fusion, and hairiness of sepal are useful traits in plant identification and classification, especially when flowers look otherwise similar.
- Changes after flowering: After pollination, sepal may stay attached, enlarge, or dry around the fruit, which can help protect developing seeds or aid their dispersal.
Related Terms
Perianth
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Petal
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Tepal
Tepal refers to one of the flower parts in a perianth where sepals and petals are not clearly different in size, color…
Flower
Flower is the reproductive structure of a flowering plant, usually containing stamens, which produce pollen, and one or…