Question

Define the term inflorescence. Explain the basis for the different types of inflorescence in flowering plants.

Answer 1

The inflorescence is how the flowers are arranged on the flowering axis. During the flowering season, the vegetative apex of the stem gets converted into a floral meristem. Based on whether the floral axis continues to grow or ends in a flower, the inflorescence is classified into racemose and cymose. In racemose inflorescence, the floral axis continues to grow and produces flowers laterally. On the other hand, in a cymose inflorescence, the main axis terminates into a flower. Hence, it is limited in growth.