Heterocephalous

/ˌhɛtərəʊˈsɛfələs/ adjective

Definition

Having a head or capitulum (flower cluster) that contains different types of flowers or florets within it.

Etymology

From hetero- (different) + -cephalous (from Greek kephale, head). The term describes flowers with diverse components in a single head.

Kelly Says

Daisies and sunflowers are heterocephalous—what looks like one flower is actually hundreds of tiny flowers packed together, with different types doing different jobs: some making pollen, others making seeds. It's a botanical disguise.

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