Types of Calyx
The different types of calyx are:
- Polysepalous Calyx: This type of Calyx has sepals that are free and separate from each other. Polysepalous calyx examples are found in flowers like Hibiscus and Camellia, where individual sepals encircle the base of the flower, forming a protective shield around the developing bud.
- Gamosepalous Calyx: The sepals in this type are fused or united, forming a single structure. The Petunia is a classic example of a plant having a gamosepalous calyx.
- Caducous Calyx: Caducous Calyx is a calyx where the sepals eventually wither or fall off after the flower blooms. This can be seen in trees like the Maple, where the calyx serves its protective purpose during the bud’s development and sheds away once the flower matures.
- Petalloid Calyx: Here, the sepals transform remarkably, adopting colors akin to petals. This phenomenon can be seen in plants like the Poinsettia, where the calyx protects and contributes to the flower’s reproductive success by attracting pollinators like bright-colored petals.
- Persistent Calyx: The sepals remain even after the flower has bloomed. Instead of withering away, they stay attached to the developing fruit, offering continued support and protection. A notable example of this can be found in the Tomato plant, where the calyx persists even as the fruit ripens.
What is Calyx?
The calyx is the outermost whorl of a flower, consisting of sepals. Sepals are leaf-like structures that enclose and protect the developing flower bud before it blooms. The function of calyx in plants is to serve as a protective covering, shielding delicate reproductive organs from environmental stress. Sepals also provide structural support to the flower and help regulate water balance within the bud. In this article, we will learn what is calyx, its location, function, and the difference between a calyx and a corolla.
Table of Content
- What is Calyx in Flower?
- Where is Calyx Located?
- Calyx Diagram
- Types of Calyx
- Functions of Calyx in Plants
- Difference Between Calyx and Corolla
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