cupule

plant anatomy

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June 25, 2026

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The term "cupule" refers to a cup-shaped anatomical structure. In plant anatomy, it specifically describes the involucre found on oaks, which is characterized by hardened, fused bracts that surround the acorn. This structure is also known as an acorn cup. Additionally, in some seed ferns, a cupule can be an outer integument that partially encloses the seed. The word originates from the Latin cupula, meaning a small tub.123

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Fagales
Characteristic morphological features
…feature of Fagales is the cupule (hull) subtending or surrounding the fruit. The structure is believed to be of a different origin in most of the families. For example, in Fagaceae it is derived from a highly modified and reduced branch system with its associated modified leaves or bracts, at…
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…feature of Fagales is the cupule (hull) subtending or surrounding the fruit. The structure is believed to be of a different origin in most of the families. For example, in Fagaceae it is derived from a highly modified and reduced branch system with its associated modified leaves or bracts, at…
Read More