Basipetal

/bəˈsɪpɪtəl/ adjective

Definition

In botany, developing or progressing from the apex or top toward the base; moving toward the base.

Etymology

From Latin 'basis' (base) + 'petere' (to seek or move toward). The term describes directional growth in plants, opposite to acropetal (toward the tip).

Kelly Says

Basipetal flower development means blooms open from the top downward—next time you see a flower spike, watch which flowers open first and you're literally watching basipetal growth!

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