In botany, flowers are classified based on the position of the ovary relative to the thalamus (floral receptacle) and the point of attachment of other floral parts (sepals, petals, stamens). The three types are Hypogynous, Epigynous, and Perigynous.
The type of ovary position (superior, half-inferior, or inferior) is an important characteristic used in the taxonomic classification of flowering plant families.
Definition: In a Hypogynous flower, the thalamus is convex or conical, and the other floral parts (sepals, petals, stamens) arise from below the ovary.
Result: The ovary is at the topmost position on the thalamus, above all other floral parts. This ovary is called a Superior Ovary.
Examples: Mustard (Brassica), China Rose (Hibiscus), Tomato, Brinjal, Petunia
Memory trick: Hypo = Below (floral parts are below the ovary)
| Type | Position of Floral Parts | Ovary Type | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hypogynous | Below the ovary | Superior | Mustard, Hibiscus |
| Perigynous | Around the ovary (same level) | Half-inferior | Rose, Plum |
| Epigynous | Above the ovary (ovary enclosed) | Inferior | Sunflower, Guava, Cucumber |
In hypogynous flowers, other floral parts arise BELOW the ovary (superior ovary). In epigynous flowers, other floral parts arise ABOVE the ovary — the ovary is embedded in the thalamus (inferior ovary).
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