Corymbose

Corymbose refers to a type of inflorescence arrangement in flowering plants where the flowers are borne in a more or less flat-topped cluster. The term is derived from the word "corymb," which describes a branching pattern in which the lower flowers have longer stems, allowing the inflorescence to appear flat or slightly rounded at the top.

Characteristics

In a corymbose inflorescence, the main axis is relatively short, and the lower flowers are borne on longer pedicels than those at the top. This arrangement ensures that the outer or lower flowers bloom first, and the blooming progresses to the higher or inner flowers, a phenomenon known as acropetal maturation. The overall effect is that all flowers in the corymb are roughly at the same level, giving it a flat or slightly convex shape.

Types of Corymbose Inflorescences

Corymbose inflorescences can vary in complexity and size, and they can be further classified into several types based on the branching pattern and the nature of the flower clusters:

• Simple Corymb - A single corymb with a central stem and several flowers arranged at the top.
• Compound Corymb - A more complex structure where each branch of the main corymb itself ends in a smaller corymb.

Examples in Nature

Many plant species exhibit corymbose inflorescences, including members of the Apiaceae (carrot family) and Asteraceae (daisy family). For example, plants like Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and some species of Hawthorn (Crataegus) display this type of flower arrangement.

Ecological Significance

The corymbose arrangement can be advantageous for certain plants in attracting pollinators, as the flat-topped configuration allows for easy access to the flowers. It also maximizes the exposure of the flowers to sunlight, which is beneficial for photosynthesis and the visual attraction of pollinators.

See Also

• Inflorescence
• Flower
• Pollination
• Apiaceae
• Asteraceae