spadix
spadix
Noun
pl: spadices
This term is a specialized botanical descriptor used primarily in scientific and horticultural contexts. It describes a specific morphological structure where flowers are densely packed on a thick, fleshy axis. It is most commonly associated with the Araceae family, such as calla lilies and peace lilies.
In technical descriptions, the spadix is almost always mentioned in conjunction with the spathe, the large modified leaf or bract that typically wraps around it. Using this term in a casual setting would be considered overly technical or pedantic, as most laypeople would simply refer to the structure as a flower spike.
Meanings
Related Words
spatheinflorescenceflowerbloomblossomstamenpistilpollenantherstigmastyleovarypedunclestemstalkaxisrachisspikecatkinearclusterbotanyplantfloravegetationanthuriummonocotdicotangiospermseedfruitberrypetalsepalcalyxcorollaperianthbractleaffoliagechlorophyllphotosynthesispollinationinsectbeetleflyfragrancescentpheromonetaxonomymorphologyanatomybiologygenusspeciesfamilyorderclassphylumkingdomgrowthdevelopmentreproductiongerminationvascularxylemphloemcambiummeristemnodeinternode