How Do You Spell POLYSEPALOUS?

1. Polysepalous is an adjective used to describe a floral structure consisting of several separate sepals. The term is derived from the Greek words "polys," meaning many, and "sepalon," meaning sepals. Sepals are leaf-like structures, usually green in color, that protect the developing bud of a flower by enclosing it in the bud stage.

   In a polysepalous flower, the sepals are not fused and instead exist as individual units. Each sepal is attached to the base of the flower and surrounds the outermost part of the bud, forming a protective layer around it. The sepals may vary in number depending on the specific plant species; they can range from two to several dozens.

   This characteristic of being polysepalous enables the sepals to perform different functions. They shield the bud from physical damage, help in preventing dehydration, and provide support during the flowering process. Moreover, the sepals often serve as the outermost whorl of a flower, protecting the inner reproductive organs such as petals, stamens, and the pistil.

   Polysepalous flowers are widely observed in various plant families, including roses, buttercups, orchids, and lilies. The distinct visual presence of separate sepals contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of these flowers. Additionally, the individuality of the sepals aids in distinguishing different species and cultivars within a given plant family.

2. In botany, noting a flower, the sepals of which are ununited.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. In bot., applied to plants where the sepals of a calyx form no cohesion; a calyx composed of separate sepals.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for POLYSEPALOUS

The word polysepalous derives from combining two Greek roots: poly- meaning many or multiple, and sepal referring to one of the parts that make up the outermost whorl of a flower, typically green and protecting the developing bud. So, polysepalous literally means having many sepals.