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How do hypogynous, perigynous, and epigynous flowers differ?
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plant reproductive system
A large bumblebee (Bombus species) pollinating a teasel flower head (Dipsacus species).
In botany, the terms hypogynous, perigynous, and epigynous describe the position of the ovary relative to the attachment points of the other floral organsāthe sepals, petals, and stamensāon the floral receptacle.12
- Hypogynous flowers: The perianth and stamens are attached to the receptacle below the gynoecium. Consequently, the ovary is superior, meaning it sits above the point of origin of the other floral organs. Examples include buttercups and magnolias.12
- Perigynous flowers: A hypanthium (a floral tube formed by the fusion of the bases of the sepals, petals, and stamens) surrounds the ovary and is attached to the receptacle below it. The ovary remains superior, while the free parts of the floral organs arise from the rim of the hypanthium. Examples include roses, cherries, and peaches.12
- Epigynous flowers: The hypanthium is fused to the gynoecium. The ovary is inferior, positioned below the attachment points of the sepals, petals, and stamens, which appear to arise from the top of the ovary. Examples include apples, pears, and asters.12