Inflorescence

Flowers may be produced singly or in groups on a plant.

 When produced singly, it is called a solitary flower, and when produced in a group, that group is called an inflorescence.

 

In an inflorescence flowers are arranged in a definite pattern on a

special reproductive branch (axis). This branch is called peduncle.

 

"A natural group (cluster) of flowers produced on a special reproductive axis (peduncle) of a plant is called an inflorescence."

 

Different plants produce flowers in different patterns or modes.

 

Significance of the inflorescence:

1. It makes flowers more conspicuous and attractive; therefore it is more effective in attracting pollinating agents such as insects or birds.

2. Many flowers can be pollinated in a single visit of an agent.

3. In an inflorescence flowers open (mature) successively and not simultaneously. This improves chances of pollination as flowering period is longer.

4. Different genera of same family often produce flowers in a particular pattern specific to that family; therefore it is one of the criteria for identification and classification of flowering plants.