How Do You Spell VERTICILLASTER?

Pronunciation: [vˈɜːtɪsˌɪlastə] (IPA)

The word "verticillaster" is spelled with four syllables: ver-ti-si-las-ter. The first syllable, "ver," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ə/. The second syllable, "ti," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/. The third syllable, "sill," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/. The fourth and final syllable, "aster," is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/. "Verticillaster" is a botanical term referring to a structure that bears flowers arranged in a whorl-like pattern.

VERTICILLASTER Meaning and Definition

1. A verticillaster refers to an inflorescence structure found in certain types of flowering plants. It is characterized by a cluster or whorl of sessile (stalkless) flowers arranged around the stem at the same node, arising from a common point. The presence of a verticillaster often gives the appearance of a whorl or a false cluster of flowers. This unique arrangement differs from a typical raceme or spike inflorescence.

   The verticillaster is most commonly observed in plants belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae, although it can also be found in some members of the aster family, Asteraceae. The flowers within the verticillaster are typically small and have bilateral symmetry, consisting of a fused corolla with a bilabiate or zygomorphic shape. Their colors vary widely, ranging from pale whites and yellows to vibrant pinks, purples, and blues.

   The verticillaster inflorescence structure is often advantageous for plant pollination as it allows for increased flower density within a small area, attracting a higher number of pollinators. This arrangement also assists in the efficient utilization of limited space on the stem, enhancing reproductive success. The term verticillaster originates from the Latin word "verticillus," meaning "a small whirl," and "aster," meaning "flower." The morphology of the verticillaster has fascinated botanists and is an essential characteristic in the identification and classification of specific plant species.

2. A false whorl or verticil in which the inflorescence in the axils of opposite leaves presents the appearance of their flowers being disposed in whorls, as in the labiate plants.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for VERTICILLASTER

• certicillaster
• berticillaster
• gerticillaster
• ferticillaster
• vwrticillaster
• vsrticillaster
• vdrticillaster
• vrrticillaster
• v4rticillaster
• v3rticillaster
• veeticillaster
• vedticillaster
• vefticillaster
• vetticillaster
• ve5ticillaster
• ve4ticillaster
• verricillaster
• verficillaster
• vergicillaster
• veryicillaster

Etymology of VERTICILLASTER

The word "verticillaster" is derived from the Latin terms "verticillus" meaning "whorl" or "spur" and "aster" meaning "star". In botany, a verticillaster refers to an inflorescence arrangement in which the flowers or bracts form a whorled cluster or a false whorl, resembling a star-shaped arrangement.

Plural form of VERTICILLASTER is VERTICILLASTERS