A Bit of Botany

Botanical terms and other technical stuff

A~B~C~D~E~F~G~H~I~J~K~L~M~N~O~P~Q~R~S~T~U~V~W~X~Y~
A Bit of Botany

A
Accessory Fruit ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, but developing from another part of
the flower, not the ovary. They have a thin outer skin and central chambers containing several
seeds. Also called a Pome. See Fruits
Achene ~ a single-seeded dry indehiscent fruit in which the seedcoat is not part of the fruit coat.
See Fruits
Acid, Acidic ~ (soil type) - a soil with a pH level of less than 7. See Soil
Adventitious Roots ~ short, fibrous roots for collecting water and food. See Monocots and
Dicots
African Violet Family ~ Gesneriaceae
Aggregation of Drupes ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, formed of many small
drupes, each containing one seed. See Fruits
Alkaline ~ (soil type) - a soil with a pH level of more than 7. See Soil
Alternate ~ arising on one side of the stem then on the other (leaf). See the photos of Leaf
Shapes and Arrangements
Androecium ~ the male reproductive parts of a flower: the stamens, which carry the pollen, and
the filament, the stalk which connects the anther to the base of the flower. See the Diagram of
Parts of a Flower.
Angiospermae ~ (Angiosperms) - plants which produce flowers. See Classification of Plants.
Annual ~ A plant that completes its life cycle (growing from seed, flowering, producing seed, and
dying) in a single year. See also Annual or Perennial?
Anther ~ the male part of the flower which holds the pollen. See the Diagram of Parts of a
Flower.
Aphids ~ soft-bodied insects that damage plant tissue, e.g. Blackfly, Greenfly. See the Plant
Pests Identification Chart
Apiaceae ~ Celery or Carrot Family (formerly Umbelliferae)
Apocynaceae ~ Periwinkle Family
Asteraceae ~ Daisy Family (formerly Compositae)
Asteridae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering Plant
Families
Axil ~ the junction of a leaf with the stem.
Axillary ~ in the junction of a leaf with the stem.

B
Banana Family ~ Musaceae
Bean Family ~ Caesalpinaceae, Fabaceae, Mimosaceae, Papilionaceae (formerly Leguminosae)
Bedstraw ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Bedstraw Family ~ Rubiaceae
Bellflower Family ~ Campanulaceae
Berry ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, usually containing a number of seeds. See
Fruits
Biennial ~ a plant that completes its life cycle in two years (growing from seed in its first year,
flowering, producing seed and dying in its second year).
Bignonia Family ~ Bignoniaceae
Bignoniaceae ~ Bignonia Family
Bindweed ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Bindweed Family ~ Convolvulaceae
Bindweed, Field ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Binomial ~ system, the two-part method for naming plants, using the Genus and the species.
Bipinnate ~ with each leaflet of a pinnate leaf also pinnate. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Blackberry ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Blackfly ~ a black soft-bodied insect that damages plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification
Chart
Boraginaceae ~ Forget-me-Not Family
Botrytis ~ also known as Grey Mould. A fungal disease that affects plants. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Bowl-shaped ~ (flower shape) - a flower with a deep dish shape, roughly hemispherical, with
straight sides or with a very slight flare at the tips. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Brassicaceae ~ Cabbage Family (formerly Cruciferae)
Bulb ~ an underground storage organ. More details and photos.
Bush Vetch ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Buttercup Family ~ Ranunculaceae

C
Cabbage Family ~ Brassicaceae (formerly Cruciferae)
Caesalpiniaceae ~ Bean Family (formerly Leguminosae)
Calyx ~ the ring of small leaves surrounding the petals, forming part of the flower. See the
Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Campanulaceae ~ Bellflower Family
Campanulate ~ (bell-shaped) - a flower with a wide tube and flared lobes (petal tips), typical of
the Bellflower family (Campanulaceae). See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Capitulum ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Capsule ~ a dry fruit which splits open to release the seeds. See Fruits
Carrot Family ~ Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae)
Caryophyllaceae ~ Pink Family
Caryophyllidae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering
Plant Families
Caryopsis ~ a simple dry indehiscent fruit, like an achene, but with the seedcoat fused with the
fruit coat. Found in members of the Grass Family (Poaceae). See Fruits
Caterpillar ~ the larvae of butterflies and moths that eat plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Cat's-ear ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Celery Family ~ Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae)
Centipede ~ a small brown animal that can damage plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Chalk ~ a soft porous limestone rock. See Soil
Chickweed ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Circumscissile Capsule ~ a dry dehiscent fruit which splits through the centre of the fruit. See
Fruits
Class ~ the main division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Classification of Plants ~ the heirarchy of plant classification.
Clay ~ very small particles of rock, forming part of soil. See Soil
Cleistogamous ~ seeds - seeds formed by self-pollination of an unopened flower, commonly
found in some types of Viola or Hibiscus.
Clusiaceae ~ (formerly Guttiferae) St. John's Wort Family
Coenocarpium ~ a fleshy fruit formed from several flowers. See Fruits
Common Names ~ and botanical names.
Common Rush ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Compositae ~ Daisy Family (now Asteraceae)
Compost ~ decomposed vegetable matter used to improve the soil; a potting medium. Formulae
for John Innes Compost.
Compound Umbel ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Convolvulaceae ~ Bindweed Family
Cordate ~ heart-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Corm ~ an underground storage organ. More details and photos.
Corolla ~ the ring of petals forming the flower. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Corymb ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Cotyledon ~ seed leaf - the first leaf or leaves forming the seed and containing the food supply
for the new seedling. See the Diagram of a Seed.
Couch Grass ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Cranefly ~ a flying insect whose larvae can damage underground plant tissue. See the Plant
Pests Identification Chart
Cranesbill ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Creeping Buttercup ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Creeping Cinquefoil ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Creeping Thistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Cross-pollination ~ pollination by the pollen of another flower. See Pollination and Fertilisation
Crucifer ~ a member of the Cabbage Family (Brassicaceae), formerly called Cruciferae.
Cruciferae ~ Cabbage Family (now Brassicaceae)
Cruciform ~ (cross-shaped) - a flower with four petals at right angles to one another. Typical of
members of the Cabbage Family (Brassicaceae). See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Cuckoo-spit ~ the white frothy mass in which the larvae of the Froghopper live. See the Plant
Pests Identification Chart
Cultivar ~ 'Cultivated Variety' - a division in the classification of flowering plants. See
Classification of Plants.
Cyme ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Cypsela ~ a single-seeded dry indehiscent fruit that develops from a one part inferior ovary (on
the stalk side of the flower). See Fruits

D
Daisy ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Daisy Family ~ Asteraceae (formerly Compositae)
Damping Off ~ a fungal disease, mainly of young seedlings, causing them to fall over and die
suddenly. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Dandelion ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Deciduous ~ a plant that loses its leaves in winter.
Dehiscent Fruits ~ seed containers which open to release the seeds. See Fruits
Deno, Norman ~ author of Seed Germination Theory and Practice
Development ~ of seeds and seedpods.
Dicot, Dicotyledon ~ a plant with two seed leaves. Opposite of monocot. See Monocots and
Dicots
Digitate ~ with five divisions like a hand (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Dilleniidae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering Plant
Families
Dioecious ~ (plant) - a plant with both male and female parts in its flowers. See Pollination and
Fertilisation
Diploid ~ an organism which has two complete sets of chromosomes. See Hybrids.
Dispersal ~ Seed - the way seeds are dispersed from the parent plant. See Seed Dispersal
Distribution ~ Seed - the distribution of seeds sent in by members of a gardening society to
other members. See Making the Most of Seed Distributions
Dock ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the Weed
Identification Chart
Dormancy ~ (1) of seeds, a period after ripening before they are ready to germinate. Persuading
them that the conditions are right for germination is called 'breaking dormancy'. (2) of plants, a
period of inactivity, for example, the dying down of bulbs after flowering until the next period of
growth, or shedding of leaves of deciduous trees during winter in cold climates.
Drupe ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, containing a hard stone with one seed. See
Fruits
Dry Fruits ~ seed containers which dry out when the seeds are ripe. See Fruits
Dutch Clover ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Dwarf Thistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart

E
Earwig ~ a small brown animal that can damage plant tissue, especially the buds of multi-
petalled flowers. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Elliptic ~ oval, with a short point (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Endosperm ~ the food contained inside the seedcoat, to feed the embryo when it first
germinates. See Monocots and Dicots
Ensiform ~ sword-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Epigeal ~ germination, where the seed leaves emerge from the ground. Opposite of hypogeal.
See photographs.
Ericaceae ~ Heath Family
Evergreen ~ a plant that keeps its leaves throughout the year.
Exchange ~ Seed - the distribution of seeds sent in by members of a gardening society to other
members. See Making the Most of Seed Distributions

F
F1 ~ F1 Hybrid. The first generation resulting from the crossing of genetically different parent
plants. See Hybrids.
F2 ~ F2 Hybrid. The second generation resulting from the crossing of genetically different plants,
i.e. the result of crossing plants of the F1 generation. See Hybrids.
Fabaceae ~ Bean Family (formerly Leguminosae)
Family ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. This is the highest classification
normally used by gardeners, and groups together plants which have significant botanical
similarities. See An Introduction to Plant Families, Classification of Plants, and Classification of
Flowering Plant Families.
Fat Hen ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Fern ~ a primitive plant that does not produce seed, but reproduces by means of spores. See
Ferns from 'Seed'.
Fertilisation ~ the fusing of the pollen from the male parent plant with the ovules of the female
parent plant. See Pollination and Fertilisation
Feverfew ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Field Mouse Ear ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Figwort Family ~ Scrophulariaceae
Filament ~ the filament is part of the male reproductive structure of a flower. It is the stalk of the
stamens. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Fleshy Fruits ~ seed containers in which the seed is enclosed in a soft pulp. See Fruits
Flower Parts ~ a Diagram of Parts of a Flower
Flower Shapes ~ diagrams and photographs of the main types of Flower Shapes.
Follicle ~ a dry dehiscent fruit which splits on one side only. It may contain one or many seeds.
See Fruits
Forget-me-not ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Forget-me-Not Family ~ Boraginaceae
Form ~ a minor division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Froghopper ~ a small animal whose larvae can damage plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Frond ~ the 'leaf' of a fern.
Frost Hardy ~ (plant) a plant that can withstand a winter temperature of at least -5 oC (23oF). See
the entry on Plant Hardiness
Fruit ~ the part of the plant in which the seeds are contained. See Fruits
Fungus Gnat ~ also known as Sciarid Fly. A small flying insect often found around indoor or
greenhouse plants, whose larvae may damage underground plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Funnelform ~ (funnel-shaped) - a flower that widens gradually from the base, ending in an open
or flared shape. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.

G
Genotype ~ the genetical makeup of an individual. See Hybrids.
Genus ~ (pl. genera) a division in the classification of flowering plants. The first name in the
binomial system, e.g. Papaver, Campanula, etc. See Classification of Plants.
Geraniaceae ~ Geranium Family
Geranium Family ~ Geraniaceae
Germander Speedwell ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Germination ~ Germination of a Seed.
Gesneriaceae ~ African Violet Family
Goose Grass ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Great Plantain ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Greenfly ~ a green soft-bodied insect that damages plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Grey Mould ~ also known as Botrytis. A fungal disease that affects plants. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Groundsel ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Ground Thistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Gymnospermae ~ (Gymnosperms) - plants which don't produce flowers. See Classification of
Plants.
Gynoecium ~ the gynoecium is the female reproductive structure of a flower. It comprises the
stigma, the style and the ovary. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
H
Hairy Bitter Cress ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Half Hardy ~ (plant) a plant that can withstand a winter temperature of at least -0 oC (32oF). See
the entry on Plant Hardiness
Hamamelidae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering
Plant Families
Hardiness ~ generally understood to be the degree of winter coldness a plant can survive. See
the entry on Plant Hardiness
Hardiness Zone ~ an area in which a plant can be expected to survive throughout the winter.
See the entry on Plant Hardiness
Hardy ~ (plant) a plant that can withstand a winter temperature of at least -15 oC (5oF). See the
entry on Plant Hardiness
Hastate ~ spear-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Hawkbit ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Hawk's Beard ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Heath Family ~ Ericaceae
Heat Zones ~ areas which have temperatures over 85oF for similar periods in the summer. See
the entry on Plant Hardiness
Heavy soil ~ a soil with a large component of clay in its makeup. See Soil
Henbit ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Hep, Hip ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, containing Achenes. See Fruits
Herb ~ a plant grown mainly for its medicinal or culinary properties, or for its aromatic foliage.
Botanically, a plant with non-woody stems, i.e. a herbaceous plant.
Herb Robert ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Herbaceous ~ a perennial plant that loses all its above-ground growth during the winter.
Herbarium ~ a collection of pressed plant specimens used for identification, usually kept in a
botanic garden.
Hesperidium ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, with a tough, aromatic rind, containing
several seeds. All fruits of this type are Citrus fruits. See Fruits
Hilum ~ the scar on a seed where it was attached to the seed pod.
Hybrid ~ the offspring resulting from the crossing of plants with different genetical makeup. See
Hybrids.
Hydrophyllaceae ~ Waterleaf Family
Hypogeal ~ germination, where the seed leaf or leaves remain underground after germination.
Opposite of epigeal. See photographs.

I
Indehiscent Fruits ~ seed heads in which the seeds are not enclosed in a pod. See Fruits
Inferior Ovary ~ an ovary outside the flower, on the stalk side. See Pollination and Fertilisation
Inflorescence ~ a stem with several flowers. See How flowers are arranged.
Internodal ~ between nodes (joints) - as in internodal cuttings, cuttings made between, not at,
the leaf joints.
Internode ~ distance between nodes.
Iridaceae ~ Iris Family
Iris Family ~ Iridaceae
Ivy ~ a climbing plant that can be a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of
the seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Ivy-leaved Toadflax ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart

J
John Innes ~ composts, made to particular formulae developed at the John Innes Horticultural
Institute in Norwich, England

K
Kenilworth Ivy ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart

L
Labiate ~ (lipped) - a flower divided into an upper 'hood' and a lower flat or pouched lip, typical of
members of the Deadnettle/Mint Family (Lamiaceae). See diagrams and photos of Flower
Shapes.
Lamiaceae ~ Mint or Nettle Family (formerly Labiatae)
Lanceolate ~ lance-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Latin names ~ meanings of common Latin plant names.
Leadwort Family ~ Plumbaginaceae
Leafminer ~ the larvae of small insects, which tunnel between the upper and lower surface of
leaves, making light-coloured trails. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Leaf shapes ~ Leaf Shapes and Arrangements.
Leatherjacket ~ the leathery larvae of the Cranefly, which can damage underground plant tissue.
See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Legume ~ a dry dehiscent pod that splits on two sides. See Fruits. A bean or pea pod, or a
member of the family Leguminosae.
Lesser Celandine ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Life Cycle ~ Diagram of the Life Cycle of a Plant
Light soil ~ a soil with a large component of (usually) sand in its makeup. See Soil
Ligulate ~ (strap-shaped) - a flower with one large, long, thin petal, typical of ray-florets of the
Aster/Daisy Family (Asteraceae). See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Liliaceae ~ Lily Family
Lily Family ~ Liliaceae
Liverwort ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Loam ~ a soil with a balanced mixture of organic and inorganic matter. See Soil
Lobed ~ with several points (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Loculicidal Capsule ~ a dry dehiscent fruit which splits along the locule (midrib of each ovary).
See Fruits
Lomentum ~ a dry dehiscent fruit, a legume constricted between the seeds. See Fruits

M
Magnoliidae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering
Plant Families
Mallow Family ~ Malvaceae
Malvaceae ~ Mallow Family
Marsh Thistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Mayweed ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Meadow Sweet ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Millipede ~ a small black animal that can damage plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification
Chart
Mimosaceae ~ Bean Family (formerly Leguminosae)
Mint Family ~ Lamiaceae (formerly Labiatae)
Monocarpic ~ plant which produces seed only once, usually living for more than two years
before it does so.
Monocot, Monocotyledon ~ plant with a single seed leaf, eg. grasses and bulbs. Opposite of
Dicotyledon.
Monoecious ~ (plant) - a plant with either male or female parts to its flowers. See Pollination and
Fertilisation
Moss ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the Weed
Identification Chart
Musaceae ~ Banana Family

N
Nettle Family ~ Lamiaceae (formerly Labiatae)
Node ~ a joint (leaf, flower stalk, etc.) on a stem.
Norman Deno ~ author of Seed Germination Theory and Practice
Nut ~ a large single hardened achene. See Fruits
Nutlet ~ a small single hardened achene, found in members of the Deadnettle/Mint Family
(Lamiaceae). See Fruits

O
Oblanceolate ~ oblong, with the top wider than the bottom (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes
and Arrangements
Opposite ~ arising in pairs on opposite sides of the stem (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes
and Arrangements
Order ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants and
Classification of Flowering Plant Families.
Ovary ~ the chamber at the base of the style which holds the ovules. It may contain one or more
ovules, in one or more parts. After the ovules have been fertilised, the ovary grows to form the
fruit or seed pod. The ovary is usually either inside the flower ('superior'), or outside the flower, on
the stem side ('inferior'). See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower and Pollination and Fertilisation.
Ovate ~ oval, tapering into a point (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Ovule ~ the ovules are the female part of the new embryo plant which will be contained in the
seeds. The seeds develop from the ovules after they have been fertilised by the pollen. See the
Diagram of Parts of a Flower and Pollination and Fertilisation.
Oxalidaceae ~ Wood Sorrel Family

P
Palmate ~ palm-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Panicle ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Papaveraceae ~ Poppy Family
Papilionaceae ~ Bean Family (formerly Leguminosae)
Papilionaceous ~ (pea-shaped) - the flower shape typical of members of the Papilionaceae,
having a large upper petal called the standard, two large side petals called wings, and two lower
petals, often fused together, called the keel, which encloses the stamens and stigma. See
diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Parts of a Flower ~ Diagram of Parts of a Flower
Pearlwort ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Peat ~ partially decomposed mosses and sedges, used as a potting medium, or a component of
some soils. See Soil
Pedicel ~ flower stalk.
Peduncle ~ flower stalk.
Peltate ~ with the stem underneath the surface of the leaf. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Pepo ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, developing from an inferior ovary. They have a
leathery outer skin, contain several seeds, and are all members of the Gourd Family
(Cucurbitaceae). See Fruits
Perfoliate ~ with the stem growing through the leaf. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Periwinkle Family ~ Apocynaceae
Pests and Diseases ~ Plant Pests - Identification Chart
Perennial ~ A plant that lives for many years. See also Annual or Perennial?
Petal ~ the outer part of the flower, usually large and brightly coloured, as its function is to attract
pollinators to the plant. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Petty Spurge ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
pH ~ a measure with a scale of 1-14 of the acidity or alkalinity of (usually) soil. Soil with a pH
value of less than 7 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and higher than 7 is alkaline.
Phenotype ~ the physical characteristics of an individual as distinct from their genetical makeup.
See Hybrids.
Phlox Family ~ Polemoniaceae
Photosynthesis ~ method by which plants produce the energy they need to grow. The
chlorophyll (green colouring) in their leaves is able to use the energy of sunlight to convert carbon
dioxide and water into sugars and starches to feed the plant.
Pin-eyed ~ a flower in which the stigma is visible in the throat (e.g. some Primulas).
Pink Family ~ Caryophyllaceae
Pinnate ~ with two rows of leaflets making up the leaf. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Pinnatifid ~ cut, but not quite into separate parts (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Pinnatisect ~ cut, but not quite into separate parts (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Pistil ~ the female reproductive part of a flower (the gynoecium), made up of the stigma, style
and ovary. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Plantain ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Plant Classification ~ the heirarchy of plant classification.
Plant Families ~ A Brief Introduction.
Plumbaginaceae ~ Leadwort Family
Plumule ~ the embryo shoot contained in the seed. See Diagram of a Seed.
Polemoniaceae ~ Phlox Family
Pollen ~ The grains produced in the pollen sac, held on the stamens, that carry the genes of the
male parent plant and are transferred to the stigma to fertilise the ovules of the female parent
plant.
Pollen sac ~ the bag that holds the pollen at top of the filament.
Pollen Parent ~ the male parent plant of the next generation whose genes are put into the seed
on fertilisation.
Pollination ~the act of transferring pollen from the stamens to the stigma. See Pollination and
Fertilisation
Polyploid ~ an organism (usually a hybrid plant) with twice the normal number of chromosomes.
See Hybrids.
Pome ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, but developing from another part of the flower,
not the ovary. They have a thin outer skin and central chambers containing several seeds. Also
called Accessory Fruits. See Fruits
Poppy Family ~ Papaveraceae
Porose Capsule ~ a dry dehiscent fruit which opens with pores or holes around the top. See
Fruits
Potato Family ~ Solanaceae
Powdery Mildew ~ a fungal disease causing yellowing of leaves and distortion of buds. See the
Plant Pests Identification Chart
Primrose Family ~ Primulaceae
Primulaceae ~ Primrose Family
Prothallus ~ the initial growth from fern spores from which the new plant develops. See Ferns
from 'Seed'.
Pseudocarp ~ a fleshy fruit formed from a single flower, but which does not contain the seeds.
The seeds are Achenes, on the outer surface of the fruit. See Fruits

Q
R
Raceme ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Radicle ~ the embryo root contained in the seed. See Diagram of a Seed.
Ragwort ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Ranunculaceae ~ Buttercup Family
Red Clover ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Red Spider Mite ~ a very small insect affecting plant tissue, particularly in warm and dry
conditions. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Rhizome ~ an underground storage organ. More details and photos.
Rhomboid ~ diamond-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Ribwort Plantain ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Rosaceae ~ Rose Family
Rose Family ~ Rosaceae
Rosette ~ circles of leaves growing closely together. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Rosidae ~ One of the Superorders in plant classification. See Classification of Flowering Plant
Families
Rubiaceae ~ Bedstraw Family

S
Salverform ~ (flower shape) - a flower with a long, thin tube, that widens suddenly into a flat-
faced flower. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Samara ~ an independent dry indehiscent fruit which has part of the fruit wall extended to form a
wing (i.e. not a winged seed inside another type of seed pod). See Fruits
Sand ~ small particles of rock. A component of soil. See Soil
Saucer-shaped _ (flower shape) - a flower that is almost flat, with slightly upturned petal tips.
See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Saxifragaceae ~ Saxifrage Family
Saxifrage Family ~ Saxifragaceae
Scarification ~ Making a small puncture in a seedcoat to allow moisture to penetrate, for
example, by nicking or rubbing on sandpaper.
Scarlet Pimpernel ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Schizocarpic Samara ~ a fruit formed of more than one samara which splits into the separate
fruits. See Fruits
Sciarid Fly ~ also known as Fungus Gnat. A small flying insect often found around indoor or
greenhouse plants, whose larvae may damage underground plant tissue. See the Plant Pests
Identification Chart
Scrophulariaceae ~ Figwort Family
Secondary Growth ~ the growth in the diameter of a stem or branch in addition to upward
growth. See Monocots and Dicots
Seed ~ the embryo of the new plant produced from fertilisation of the ovule by pollen, enclosed in
an outer coat. See Diagram of a Seed.
Seed ~ development of
Seed Dispersal ~ the way seeds are dispersed from the parent plant. See Seed Dispersal
Seed Distribution ~ the distribution of seeds sent in by members of a gardening society to other
members. See Making the Most of Seed Distributions
Seed Envelopes - a Seed Envelope Template
Seed Exchange ~ the distribution of seeds sent in by members of a gardening society to other
members. See Making the Most of Seed Distributions
Seed Parent ~ the female parent plant of the next generation whose genes are put into the seed
on fertilisation.
Selective Breeding ~ breeding hybrids with a desired characteristics by removing plants not
showing the characteristic from each generation until all plants in the group show the desirable
characteristic. See Hybrids.
Self ~ (flower colour) - a flower of a single, solid colour.
Self-pollination ~ pollination of the stigma by the pollen of the same flower. See Pollination and
Fertilisation
Selfed ~ Self Pollinated. Fertilisation of the ovules of a plant with pollen from the same plant.
Self Heal ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Sepal ~ one of the small green 'leaves' directly under the petals, forming part of the flower. See
the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
Septicidal Capsule ~ a dry dehiscent fruit which splits along the septa (joints of the ovary). See
Fruits
Sessile ~ without a stalk (flower or leaf).
Silique ~ a dry dehiscent fruit. It is long and thin, splits down the two long sides, and has a
papery membrane (the septum) between the two halves. Found in members of the Cabbage
Family (Brassicaceae). See Fruits
Silt ~ small particles of rock, forming part of soil. See Soil
Silverweed ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Slug ~ a mollusc without a shell that eats plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Snail ~ a mollusc with a shell that eats plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Soil ~ the outer layer of the earth's surface. See Soil
Solanaceae ~ Potato Family
Sooty Mould ~ a fungus which grows on the surface of leaves, feeding on the secretions of
aphids. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Sori ~ the capsules on the underside of the leaf of a fern that hold the spores. See Ferns from
'Seed'.
Sorosis ~ a fleshy fruit formed from several flowers. See Fruits
Sowthistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Spathulate ~ spoon-shaped (leaf). See the photos of Leaf Shapes and Arrangements
Species ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. The second name in the binomial
system, this is the name that defines an individual plant, e.g. Papaver somniferum See
Classification of Plants.
Speedwell ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Spike ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Spores ~ the dust-like substance produced by ferns from which the new plant eventually
develops. See Ferns from 'Seed'.
Springtail ~ a small hopping insect found on the surface of compost or under pots, feeding on
plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Stamen ~ part of the male reproductive system of the flower, the androecium. The stamens are
made up of the anthers and the filament. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower and Pollination
and Fertilisation.
Stellate ~ (star-shaped) - a flower with many narrow petals arising separately from a central
point. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Stigma ~ one of the female reproductive part of a flower. The stigma is on the end of the style,
and has a sticky surface to retain the pollen. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower.
St. John's Wort ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
St. John's Wort Family ~ Clusiaceae
Stinging Nettle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Stratification ~ Keeping seeds in layers of damp sand in cold temperatures, to break seed
dormancy.
Style ~ part of the female reproductive system of a plant, connecting the stigma with the ovary.
The pollen grains grow down from the stigma to fertilise the ovules in the ovary at the base of the
style. See the Diagram of Parts of a Flower and Pollination and Fertilisation.
Subclass ~ a major division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Subfamily ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Substrate ~ the underlying rock type in an area. See Soil
Subtribe ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Superior Ovary ~ an ovary inside the flower.
Superorder~ a major division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants
and Classification of Flowering Plant Families.
Syngonium ~ a fleshy fruit formed from several flowers. See Fruits

T
Tap Root ~ a long, tapering root which can anchor the plant in the soil as well as collecting water
and food. See Monocots and Dicots
Tender ~ (plant) a plant that would be damaged by temperatures lower than 5 oC (41oF). See the
entry on Plant Hardiness
Testa ~ seedcoat. See Diagram of a Seed.
Tetraploid ~ an organism (usually a hybrid plant) with four times the normal number of
chromosomes. See Hybrids.
Thistle ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see the
Weed Identification Chart
Thrum-eyed ~ a flower in which the thrums (stamens) are visible in the throat, as in some
species of Primula.
Thyme-leaved Speedwell ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Topsoil ~ the top layer of earth in our gardens. See Soil
Tribe ~ a division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Trifoliate ~ with each leaf made up of three separate leaflets. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Tripinnate ~ with each leaflet divided into three. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Triploid ~ an organism (usually a hybrid plant) with three times the normal number of
chromosomes. See Hybrids.
Trumpet-shaped ~ (flower shape) - a flower that starts as a narrow tube, but widens into a flared
mouth, where the petals often turn back. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Tuber ~ an underground storage organ. More details and photos.
Tubular ~ (flower shape) - a flower with a long, thin, straight-sided tube formed of united petals,
often separating at the mouth into a flared shape. See diagrams and photos of Flower Shapes.
Tunic ~ the papery covering of a bulb.

U
Umbel ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Umbelliferae ~ Carrot or Celery Family (now Apiaceae)
Underground Storage Organs ~ bulbs, corms, rhizomes, tubers. More details and photos.
Urceolate ~ (urn-shaped) - a flower in which the petals are fused into an almost enclosed globe
shape, separating at the mouth into individual flared petals. See diagrams and photos of Flower
Shapes.

V
Valvate Capsule ~ a dry dehiscent fruit in which the tips of the seed capsule split. See Fruits
Variety ~ a minor division in the classification of flowering plants. See Classification of Plants.
Verticillaster ~ type of inflorescence. See How flowers are arranged.
Vascular Bundles ~ The groups of tissue which carry water from the roots to the leaves of a
plant. See Monocots and Dicots
Violaceae ~ Violet Family
Violet Family ~ Violaceae

W
Waterleaf Family ~ Hydrophyllaceae
Weeds ~ for photos of flowers and seedlings of around 50 weeds, go here
White Bryony ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
White Clover ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Whitlow Grass ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Whorl ~ a ring of flowers or leaves around the stem, especially in members of the
Deadnettle/Mint Family (Lamiaceae)
Whorled ~ leaves arising in rings around the stem. See the photos of Leaf Shapes and
Arrangements
Willow ~ a tree that can be a weed. For a description and photo of the seedling, see the Weed
Identification Chart
Willow Herb ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Woodlouse ~ a small crustacean, preferring damp conditions, feeding mainly on decaying plant
material, but which may damage living plant tissue. See the Plant Pests Identification Chart
Wood Sorrel Family ~ Oxalidaceae

X
Y
Yellow Meadow Vetchling ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the
seedling, see the Weed Identification Chart
Yellow Oxalis ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart
Yellow Pimpernel ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling,
see the Weed Identification Chart
Yellow Trefoil ~ a weed (or wildflower or herb). For a description and photo of the seedling, see
the Weed Identification Chart