Scorpioid cyme is a botanical term used to describe an inflorescence structure in plants. The word "scorpioid" refers to the curved, spiraled shape of the cyme, resembling the tail of a scorpion. The phonetic transcription of "scorpioid cyme" is /skɔrpiːɔɪd saɪm/. The pronunciation of "scorpioid" is /ˈskɔːrpɪɔɪd/, and "cyme" is pronounced as /saɪm/. The correct spelling of this term is important to ensure proper communication and understanding among botanists, horticulturists, and other professionals in the field of plant biology.
A scorpioid cyme is a type of inflorescence found in flowering plants, commonly referred to as a cluster of flowers. It is characterized by the arrangement of the flowers in a helical or spiral pattern, resembling the shape of a scorpion's tail, hence its name. The main axis of the inflorescence grows in an elongated manner, with each subsequent flower arising below the previous one, forming a curved or coiled structure.
The flowers in a scorpioid cyme are usually pedicellate, meaning they have distinct stalks that attach them to the main axis. These flowers typically open in a sequence, starting from the base of the inflorescence and progressing towards the top. As the flowers mature and develop into fruits, the inflorescence continues to grow and elongate, creating its distinctive, coiling appearance.
Scorpioid cymes are commonly seen in plants belonging to the Asteraceae family, such as sunflowers and daisies, but they can also occur in other plant families. This type of inflorescence allows for efficient pollination, as the flowers are positioned in a way that ensures their exposure to pollinators. Additionally, the helical arrangement of flowers in a scorpioid cyme creates a visually appealing and often unique ornamental display in gardens and natural settings.
Overall, a scorpioid cyme is a specialized form of inflorescence characterized by the spiral arrangement of flowers along an elongated axis, resembling the shape of a scorpion's tail.
A sympodial branching in which the branches are placed alternately on one and the other side.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "scorpioid cyme" is derived from the combination of two words: "scorpioid" and "cyme".
1. "Scorpioid" comes from the Latin word "scorpius", meaning "scorpion". The term refers to a type of inflorescence, which is a pattern of arrangement of flowers on a stem. The shape of the inflorescence in a scorpioid cyme resembles the curved shape of a scorpion's tail.
2. "Cyme" is derived from the Greek word "kyma", meaning "wave" or "billow". It refers to the specific type of inflorescence in which the main stem ends in a flower, and subsequent flowers arise from the axils of the leaves below. This arrangement creates a flat, broad-topped structure.