Clistocarpous

/ˌklɪs.tə.ˈkɑr.pəs/ adjective

Definition

Having the quality of being a closed fruit that doesn't naturally split open to release seeds.

Etymology

From Greek 'kleistos' (closed) and 'karpos' (fruit), with Latin adjectival ending '-ous.' Botanical terminology developed in the 19th century.

Kelly Says

This describes plants that evolved a completely different strategy than the showy seeds and fruits we usually notice—they're the hermits of the plant world, keeping their reproductive material private.

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