Perianth, pronounced /pɛrɪænθ/, is a botanical term that refers to the outer parts of a flower, including the sepals, petals, and sometimes bracts. The word comes from the Greek words "peri" meaning around and "anthos" meaning flower. The spelling of perianth can be a bit tricky as it includes the uncommon combination of "ian" and "th", but it is pronounced as four syllables, with the stress falling on the second syllable. This word is commonly used in the field of botany and plant science.
Perianth refers to the outermost whorl of floral organs in a flower. It is typically composed of two main parts, the calyx and the corolla, though in some flowers it may only have one of these structures. The perianth is a non-sexual part of the flower and is involved in protecting the reproductive organs, attracting pollinators, or both.
The calyx is the outer part of the perianth, consisting of one or more green, leaf-like structures called sepals. Sepals are commonly found in flowers and serve the purpose of enclosing and protecting the developing flower bud. They are often green in color and can vary in shape, size, and texture among different species.
The corolla is the inner part of the perianth and typically consists of one or more brightly colored petals. Petals are usually soft, delicate, and possess different shapes and patterns. The corolla's primary function is to attract pollinators such as insects or birds through visual cues like color and shape, as well as through scent.
Together, the calyx and the corolla form the perianth, which encloses and supports the male and female reproductive structures of the flower, including the stamens and pistils. The size, shape, color, and arrangement of the perianth can vary greatly among different flowering plants and play a crucial role in the successful reproduction and survival of the species.
A floral envelope, especially one in which the calyx and corolla are indistinguishable.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., the external floral whorls which surround the stamens and pistil-in this sense including calyx and corolla.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word perianth is derived from two Greek words: peri, meaning around, and anthos, meaning flower.