In this article we will discuss about Calyx in plants:- 1. Meaning of Calyx 2. Forms of Calyx.
Meaning of Calyx:
The outer whorl of perianth consisting of sepals is called calyx.
1. Polysepalous:
When calyx lobes or sepals are free, e.g., Cassia.
2. Gamosepalous:
When calyx lobes or sepals are fused or united, e.g., Datura.
3. Caducous:
When sepals wither or drop off very soon, e.g., poppy.
4. Persistent:
When sepals persist even in the fruit, e.g., Solanum nigrum.
5. Petalloid:
When sepals are coloured, e.g., Delphinium.
Forms of Calyx:
Calyx may be of following types:
1. Tabular:
Like a tube, e.g., Nicotiana.
2. Urceolate:
Un-shaped, e.g., Hyoscyamus.
3. Cupulate:
Cup-like, e.g., Gossypium.
4. Infundibuliform:
Funnel-shaped, e.g., Atropa belladona.
5. Campanulate:
Bell-shaped, e.g., Lathyrus odoratus.
6. Bilabiate:
Consisting of two lips, e.g., Ocimum.
7. Spurred:
When one or more sepals are produced into spur, e.g., Delphinium.
8. Pappus:
Reduced and hairy, as in Asteraceae.