Sepal
Sepal
Sepal (/ˈsiːpəl/ or /ˈsɛpəl/) is a part of the flower of angiosperms (flowering plants). It is usually green and positioned directly beneath the petal. The sepal often functions as protection for the flower in bud, and often supports the petals when in bloom.
Etymology
The term "sepal" comes from the New Latin sepalum, which is a blend of Greek skepē (meaning a covering) and petalon (meaning a leaf). It was first used in the early 18th century.
Function
The main function of the sepal is to protect the flower bud before it opens. In some plants, sepals are modified to serve other functions. In the family Bromeliaceae, for example, the sepals are brightly colored and petal-like, attracting pollinators.
Related Terms
- Calyx: The term for all of the sepals within a flower.
- Petal: The often colorful parts of a flower that are usually located immediately above the sepals.
- Stamen: The pollen-producing reproductive organ of a flower.
- Carpel: The female reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of an ovary, a stigma, and usually a style.
- Bract: A modified or specialized leaf, especially one associated with a reproductive structure such as a flower, inflorescence axis, or cone scale.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sepal
- Wikipedia's article - Sepal
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