Amorphophallus Flower Structure: A Complete Botanical Guide
Understanding the Amorphophallus flower structure is essential for grasping how these unique plants reproduce. Biologically, the Amorphophallus genus is monoecious. This means that both female and male flowers grow on a single individual plant. These reproductive organs sit on a central spike called a spadix. Usually, a large bract protects this structure.
Anatomy of the Spadix
The internal arrangement of the bloom consists of distinct zones along the spadix. In some species, a sterile area separates the male and female flower zones. However, other species have contiguous zones where they sit directly next to each other. Furthermore, the proportion of these zones varies greatly. For instance, the female zone can be shorter, equal to, or even longer than the male zone. Therefore, this specific anatomical setup helps the plant manage its reproductive cycle effectively.
The Diversity of the Appendix
Additionally, a prominent feature of this plant is the appendix. This part is the sterile uppermost section of the spadix. It usually sits directly above the male zone. Sometimes, a short stalk known as a stipe separates the two. The appendix shows immense diversity in shape and texture. It can be conical, cylindric, or nearly spherical. Moreover, its surface can be smooth, wrinkled, or even covered in hair-like structures.
Post-Fertilization Changes
Once fertilization occurs, the physical form of the plant changes dramatically. Specifically, the male zone and the appendix wither and fall off. Consequently, the female part of the Amorphophallus flower structure begins to transform. This section swells or elongates significantly as it develops into fruit. Many botanical studies have documented this fascinating process over the years.
Amorphophallus angulatus, Amorphophallus annulifer, Amorphophallus asper, Amorphophallus beccarii, Amorphophallus borneensis, Amorphophallus costatus, Amorphophallus decus silvae, Amorphophallus discophorus, Amorphophallus eburneus, Amorphophallus forbesii, Amorphophallus galbra, Amorphophallus gigas, Amorphophallus haematospadix, Amorphophallus hewittii, Amorphophallus hirsutus, Amorphophallus infundibuliformis, Amorphophallus linguiformis, Amorphophallus manta, Amorphophallus muelleri, Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, Amorphophallus pendulus, Amorphophallus plicatus, Amorphophallus prainii, Amorphophallus sagittarius, Amorphophallus spectabilis, Amorphophallus tinekeae, Amorphophallus titanum, Amorphophallus variabilis
