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Perianth

Last updated: November 20, 2018

What Does Perianth Mean?

The perianth, or pigonium or perigon, is the structure of a flower that does not have to do with reproduction. The actual division of parts varies from species to species, but can include the corolla and calyx.

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Maximum Yield Explains Perianth

Flowers are the means by which many plants reproduce. While beautiful, flowers are also quite complex and include a number of different parts. The reproductive parts of a flower are usually found tucked inside the perianth, or the outer envelope that helps to protect the reproductive parts from damage. Depending on the type of plant, this envelope can take many different forms, including petals.

There are two primary parts to the perianth. The calyx can be single, or it can be divided into sepals. The inner perianth, which is also called the corolla, may be solid, or it may be divided into petals. Note that many flowers may have a very limited corolla or calyx.

In some flowers, either the corolla or calyx might be missing entirely. For instance, female cannabis plants have highly modified flowers with perianths that do not resemble those of other flowers with which most of us are familiar.

In a sense, when you think of a flower, you’re usually picturing the perianth itself. When present, it is the most visible and “flowerlike” part of the flower.

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