PISTILLATE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "pistillate" refers to the female reproductive organ found in flowers, particularly angiosperms. It is an adjective that describes flowers or plants that possess specifically the pistil, a structure responsible for producing seeds. More specifically, "pistillate" describes flowers or plants that have only pistils and do not contain stamens, the male reproductive structures of flowers.
The pistil, also known as the carpel, consists of three main parts: the stigma, style, and ovary. The stigma serves as the pollen receptor, where pollen grains land and germinate. The style is a long, slender tube that connects the stigma to the ovary. The ovary, located at the base of the pistil, contains one or more ovules that house the potential seeds. After pollination and fertilization, these ovules develop into seeds, ensuring the reproduction of the plant.
In a botanical context, the term "pistillate" is used to differentiate flower types within a plant species. It helps to identify female flowers or plants when studying their reproductive biology. By understanding the distinction between pistillate and staminate (male) plants, scientists can delve deeper into the different roles each type of flower plays in a plant's life cycle, such as pollination processes and subsequent seed production.
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Having a pistil-applied to a female flower or plant.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PISTILLATE
Etymology of PISTILLATE
The word "pistillate" has its roots in Latin. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "pistillum", which means "pestle" or "stamen". In botany, the term "pistillate" is used to describe flowers that possess a pistil, which is the female reproductive organ. The use of "pistillate" to describe these flowers dates back to the early 19th century.
Similar spelling words for PISTILLATE
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