Umbel
Umbel
Umbel (pronounced: /ˈʌmbəl/) is a term used in botany to describe a certain type of inflorescence. The term is derived from the Latin word umbella, meaning a sunshade or parasol, which in turn is a diminutive of umbra, meaning shadow.
An umbel is a type of inflorescence which has a number of flower stalks or pedicels, originating from a common point, somewhat like umbrella ribs. The word was coined in botanical usage in the 1590s. The arrangement can vary from being flat-topped to almost spherical.
Structure
Umbels can be simple or compound. A simple umbel is an inflorescence that consists of a number of flower stalks of equal length that are attached at a single point on the main stem. A compound umbel, on the other hand, has a structure in which the primary flower stalks each end in a secondary umbel of flowers.
Examples
Some common examples of plants that produce umbel inflorescences include members of the carrot family (Apiaceae), such as parsley, dill, carrot, and coriander.
Related Terms
- Inflorescence: The complete flower head of a plant including stems, stalks, bracts, and flowers.
- Pedicel: The stalk of a single flower in an inflorescence.
- Apiaceae: A large family of aromatic flowering plants, including herbs, shrubs, and trees, which are commonly known as the celery, carrot or parsley family.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Umbel
- Wikipedia's article - Umbel
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