Petal
Petal
Petal (/ˈpɛtəl/; from the Greek πέταλον, pétalon, meaning "leaf") is a term used in botany to refer to the often colorful parts of a flower that surround the reproductive organs.
Etymology
The term "petal" comes from the Ancient Greek word pétalon, which means "leaf". This is likely due to the leaf-like appearance of petals in many flower species.
Description
Petals are modified leaves that surround the reproductive parts of flowers. They are often brightly colored or unusually shaped to attract pollinators. Together, all of the petals of a flower are known as the corolla. Petals are usually accompanied by another set of special leaves called sepals, that collectively form the calyx and lie just beneath the corolla. The calyx and the corolla together make up the perianth.
Function
The primary function of a petal is to attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds to a flower and thus aid in the process of pollination. The petal's color, shape, and scent can all play a role in this process. Some petals have patterns, called nectar guides, that guide pollinators to the nectar.
Related Terms
- Corolla: The collective term for all the petals of a flower.
- Sepal: The outer parts of the perianth, which protect the flower before it opens.
- Perianth: The non-reproductive parts of the flower, consisting of the calyx (sepals) and corolla (petals).
- Nectar guides: Patterns on the petals of some flowers that guide pollinators to the nectar.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Petal
- Wikipedia's article - Petal
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