lodicule

plant anatomy

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June 30, 2026

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Lodicules are small, delicate scales found at the base of a grass flower's ovary. Typically, there are two to three lodicules, though some species may have none or up to six. These structures are crucial for anthesis, the process of a flower opening. When the flower matures, the lodicules swell, forcing apart the lemma and palea (protective scales surrounding the flower). This opening allows the anthers and stigmas to emerge for pollination. After pollination, the lodicules shrink, and the flower closes to protect the developing fruit.12

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Poaceae
Characteristic morphological features
…there are translucent structures called lodicules. They are two or three (rarely none or up to six) in number and too small to be seen well without magnification. They vary in shape, but all function similarly in that they swell rapidly when the flower is mature and force apart the…
Read More
…there are translucent structures called lodicules. They are two or three (rarely none or up to six) in number and too small to be seen well without magnification. They vary in shape, but all function similarly in that they swell rapidly when the flower is mature and force apart the…
Read More