samara

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samara

plant reproductive body

Also known as: key

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

A samara is a dry, indehiscent, and typically one-seeded fruit that features a wing. This wing allows the fruit to spin like a helicopter rotor when it falls, aiding in dispersal by wind. Common trees that produce samaras include elm, ash, and maple. The term "samara" originated in the late 16th century and literally means "seed of the elm" in Latin. This unique fruit structure is an adaptation for wind dispersal, a common method for seeds and fruits to spread, particularly in pioneer vegetation.12

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box elder
…seed is borne in a samara, or key—i.e., a broad, flat winglike structure. Owing to its quick growth and its drought resistance, the box elder was widely planted for shade by early settlers in the prairie areas of the United States. Maple syrup and sugar are sometimes obtained from the…
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…seed is borne in a samara, or key—i.e., a broad, flat winglike structure. Owing to its quick growth and its drought resistance, the box elder was widely planted for shade by early settlers in the prairie areas of the United States. Maple syrup and sugar are sometimes obtained from the…
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elm
Physical description
…winglike structure, is called a samara.
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…winglike structure, is called a samara.
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angiosperm
Fruits
The samara is a winged achene and is found in the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima; Simaroubaceae) and ash (Fraxinus; Oleaceae). In the caryopsis, or grain, the seed adheres to the fruit wall (pericarp). The caryopsis is found among the cereal grasses, such as corn. Nuts…
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The samara is a winged achene and is found in the tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima; Simaroubaceae) and ash (Fraxinus; Oleaceae). In the caryopsis, or grain, the seed adheres to the fruit wall (pericarp). The caryopsis is found among the cereal grasses, such as corn. Nuts…
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maple
…pairs of winged seeds, called samaras or keys. The leaves are arranged oppositely on twigs. Many maples have lobed leaves, but a few have leaves separated into leaflets.
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…pairs of winged seeds, called samaras or keys. The leaves are arranged oppositely on twigs. Many maples have lobed leaves, but a few have leaves separated into leaflets.
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fruit
Wind dispersal
…in maple, is called a samara. When fruits have several wings on their sides, rotation may result, as in rhubarb and dock species. Sometimes accessory parts form the wings—for example, the bracts (small green leaflike structures that grow just below flowers) in linden (Tilia).
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…in maple, is called a samara. When fruits have several wings on their sides, rotation may result, as in rhubarb and dock species. Sometimes accessory parts form the wings—for example, the bracts (small green leaflike structures that grow just below flowers) in linden (Tilia).
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