Define Hypogynous, Perigynous and Epigynous Flowers

Answer : Perigynous, Hypogynous and epigynous are the classifications given to flowers based on the position of the corolla, calyx, and androecium with the ovary on the thalamus. The gynoecium is a flower’s female reproductive organ, which consists of one or more carpels.

The style, stigma and ovary are all components of a carpel, which consists of three parts. Depending on where the corolla, calyx, and androecium attach to the ovary on the thalamus, flowers can be divided into 3 types.

Perigynous Flowers:

Perigynous flowers have a gynoecium in the centre and other parts of the flower on the thalamus’ rim almost at the same level as the gynoecium. The ovary of perigynous flowers, such as plum roses and peaches, is said to be half inferior

Hypogynous Flowers:

Hypogynous flowers are those that have the gynoecium at the top of the flower, while the rest of the parts are located lower down. Some cultivars, such as china rose, mustard and brinjal are said to have superior ovaries.

Epigynous Flowers:

The ovary is completely encased by the thalamus in these flowers and the rest of the flower is formed above the ovary. The ovary of an epigynous flower is said to be inferior, like the ray florets of sunflowers and cucumber flowers and guava.