Bracts

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Bracts

Bracts (pronounced: /brækts/) are modified or specialized leaves, especially those associated with flowers or inflorescences.

Etymology

The term "bract" is derived from the Latin word "bractea", which means a thin piece of metal or gold leaf. It was first used in botany in the early 19th century.

Definition

Bracts are often different from the regular leaves of a plant, they may be smaller, larger, or of a different color, shape, or texture. In some cases, they perform functions similar to petals in attracting pollinators.

Types of Bracts

There are several types of bracts, including:

  • Spathe: A large, often colorful bract that encloses a spadix.
  • Involucre: A group of bracts that form a whorl around a flower or flower cluster.
  • Epicalyx: A group of bracts resembling a calyx or outermost whorl of a flower.

Related Terms

  • Inflorescence: The complete flower head of a plant including stems, stalks, bracts, and flowers.
  • Sepal: The outer parts of the flower (often green and leaf-like) that enclose a developing bud.
  • Petal: The parts of a flower that are often brightly colored or unusually shaped to attract pollinators.

See Also

External links

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