Tag: Apetalous

Apetalous Definition:Apetalous (from the Greek a- meaning "without" and petalon meaning "petal") describes a flower that lacks petals. Botanical Context:In botanical classification, apetalous flowers are those that do not develop petals, though they may still possess other floral structures such as sepals, stamens, and carpels. This characteristic can be an evolutionary adaptation to wind or insect pollination, where petals are unnecessary for attracting pollinators. Examples in Plant Families: Salicaceae (Willow Family): Willows (Salix spp.) and poplars (Populus spp.) produce small, apetalous flowers arranged in catkins, relying on wind or insect pollination. Amaranthaceae (Amaranth Family):...