Definitions of Flowers

There are many varieties of flowers.

Flowers are the reproductive structures of flowering plants, which are also known as angiosperms. There are many colors, sizes and types of flowers.

Structure

A flower is composed of stamens, pistils, sepals and petals. The stamens and pistils produce pollen, while the sepals and petals make up the colorful, showy part of the flower.

Appearance

Flowers are often brightly colored. They may be radially symmetrical, such as roses, which are referred to as actinomorphic. Bilaterally symmetrical flowers, like orchids, are referred to as zygomorphic.

Reproduction

Flowers reproduce through self-pollination or cross-pollination. In self-pollination, the flower reproduces with its own pollen; cross-pollination involves the transfer of pollen from another plant. Insects and wind often aid in cross-pollination.

Uses

Flowers can be used to produce perfumes, and as ingredients in food or drink, beauty products and medicine. They are important in many cultures as gifts and decorations at events such as weddings and funerals.

Fun Fact

Floriography is the "language of flowers." Since Victorian times, flowers have been a means of expressing a sentiment. For example, a red rose connotes romance.

References

• Encyclopedia Britannica: Flower
• Garden Guides: Uses of Flowers
• BBC: Floriography