inflorescence flower (Q1569)

A functionally integrated, complex structure comprising sets of sporophytic and/or associated sterile structures disposed in standard sequence along a common axis; consisting of one or more constituent members each of, in ascending (proximal to distal) order of insertion, perianth (tepals, or else sepals and/or petals), androecium (stamens, staminodes and/or other associated structures), and/or gynoecium (pistils and/or other associated structures), the foregoing all borne laterally from the distal portion (receptacle) of the axis; depending upon the combination of structures present, may be bisexual, staminate only, pistillate only, or sterile; characteristic of and unique to the Magnoliophyta (Angiospermae). When a fertile androecium and gynoecium are both present a flower is termed perfect. When perfect and also with calyx and corolla both present, a flower is termed complete. Both terms are somewhat archaic and of limited descriptive value.