Raceme is a botanical term used to describe a flower cluster in which each flower is attached by a short stalk to a central stem. The spelling of "raceme" is pronounced /reɪ-sim/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The "r" sound is pronounced with a slight roll of the tongue, and the "a" sound is pronounced as in "ray". The "s" sound is pronounced with a hissing sound, and the "i" sound is pronounced as in "sin". The "m" sound is pronounced with the lips closed.
A raceme is a botanical term used to describe a type of inflorescence, which refers to the arrangement of flowers on a plant. Specifically, a raceme is a type of simple inflorescence characterized by a central axis with flowers that grow along it on stalks called pedicels. The flowers are attached directly to the central axis and are arranged in an elongated, unbranched fashion.
Typically, the flowers in a raceme are attached in an alternate or whorled pattern, with each flower having its own individual pedicel. The flowers in a raceme typically mature in an acropetal manner, meaning the lower flowers on the axis open before the upper ones.
Racemes can be found in a wide variety of plants, including trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. They can have varying lengths and densities, ranging from short and compact to long and loose. Additionally, the individual flowers within a raceme can also vary in color, size, and shape.
Racemes are considered a simple type of inflorescence because they do not branch or divide further. However, they can be combined to form more complex inflorescences, such as panicles or spikes. Overall, racemes are a common and easily recognizable flower arrangement that can be found in numerous plant species across the globe.
An indefinite inflorescence in which the flowers are borne on stalks arising from a long central axis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In bot., an inflorescence in which there is a common axis or stem bearing stalked flowers, as in the hyacinth, the currant, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "raceme" comes from the Latin word "racemus", which means a cluster of grapes. It was originally used to describe the arrangement of flowers on a stem or inflorescence that resembles a bunch of grapes. The term was later adopted in botany to refer to a type of inflorescence where the main axis bears pedicels with flowers, each attached at the same level, giving the appearance of a cluster or spike.