Structure of the Cyperaceae Inflorescence

Abstract

This work presents the basics for interpreting the adult inflorescencestructure in Cyperaceae. It provides an analysis of the variations of the synflorescenceand inflorescence structure in the family. Three types of synflorescence may berecognized in this family: a synflorescence with a foliate stem, a terminal inflorescenceand a variable number of lateral inflorescences; a synflorescence with a foliatestem and only the terminal inflorescence; and a synflorescence with a scape and aterminal inflorescence. Variations in the structure and form of the inflorescences arerelated to variations in inflorescence branching, inflorescence homogenization degree,presence or absence of the distal part of the inflorescence, phyllotaxis, inflorescenceposition, types of bracts and leaves subtending branches, elongation ofinflorescence internodes and spikelet structure. These variations are correlated withsome of the developmental processes that give origin to the inflorescence.