Pronunciation: [spˈadɪsɪz] (IPA) 
The word "spadices" is actually the plural form of "spadix", which is a botanical term for a type of inflorescence, or arrangement of flowers. The spelling of "spadices" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as /speɪdɪsiːz/. The "sp" sound is represented by the /sp/ consonant cluster, followed by the long "a" sound /eɪ/ and the consonant sound /d/. The plural ending "-es" is indicated by the /iːz/ sound.
Spadices, also known as spadix singular form, is a botanical term used to refer to a spike-like inflorescence structure that is characteristic of certain plant families. It is derived from the Latin word "spadix," which means a pointed instrument. The spadices can be found in plants belonging to the Araceae family, including the popular houseplants such as the peace lily and the philodendron.
A spadix consists of a fleshy floral axis that is enveloped by a modified leaf known as a spathe. The spathe is typically a large bract that encloses and protects the reproductive parts, giving the spadix its distinctive appearance. The spadix is usually erect and elongated, with numerous small flowers arranged closely together along its axis.
The flowers on the spadix are often unisexual, meaning they bear either male or female reproductive organs, although some species may have flowers with both sexes. The spadix inflorescence can vary in color, ranging from white, yellow, green, to purplish or reddish tones. Spadices are pollinated by a wide variety of insects, which are attracted to the spadix by the release of scent or heat.
In addition to their reproductive function, certain plants with spadices also employ them for thermogenesis. This physiological process generates heat that can last for hours, which aids in attracting pollinating insects and dispersing their scent signals. The spadix, therefore, plays a crucial role in the reproduction and survival of plants that possess this unique inflorescence structure.
In bot., a form of inflorescence in which the flowers are closely arranged around a thick fleshy axis, and the whole wrapped in a large leaf, called a spathe, as in the arum.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "spadices" is derived from the Latin term "spadix", which means a spike or ear of corn. The Latin word itself comes from the Greek word "spadix" (σπάδιξ), with the same meaning. The term was adopted into botany to refer to a type of inflorescence characterized by a fleshy, often elongated, unbranched axis with small flowers densely arranged around it. The plural form "spadices" is used when referring to multiple spadices.
