How Do I Design A Garden With A Mix Of Different Flower Shapes And Sizes?
Flower shapes can be quite complicated to understand, but with a little bit of effort and some help, anyone can learn all there is to know about the terminology involved. First of all, it's important to understand that flowers can come in many different shapes and sizes, with different parts that serve different functions. Here are some of the most common flower shapes and a few things you should know about each one.
1. Actinomorphic
The actinomorphic flower is symmetrical and can be divided in half in any direction, meaning that every petal is exactly the same size and shape. This type of flower is often found on plants that are pollinated by insects or by the wind. Examples of actinomorphic flowers include daisies, sunflowers, and asters.
2. Zygomorphic
Zygomorphic flowers are asymmetrical and cannot be divided in half in any direction. The petals are usually different sizes and shapes, with one side of the flower being more prominent or noticeable than the other. Flowers that are zygomorphic are often pollinated by specific animals, such as bees, that are attracted to the unique shape and color of the flower. Some examples of zygomorphic flowers include orchids, snapdragons, and sweet peas.
3. Radial
A radial flower is similar to an actinomorphic flower in that it is symmetrical and can be divided in half in any direction. However, the petals are arranged in a circular or semi-circular shape, making the flower appear round or flat. Examples of radial flowers include roses, peonies, and dahlias.
4. Bilateral
Like zygomorphic flowers, bilateral flowers are asymmetrical and cannot be divided in half in any direction. However, the petals are arranged in such a way that the flower appears to have a mirror image on each side. These types of flowers are often pollinated by specific animals, such as butterflies, that are attracted to the symmetry and color patterns. Some examples of bilateral flowers include violets, irises, and lilies.
5. Composite
A composite flower is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in a cluster or head. Each individual flower is not very noticeable, but together they create a large and noticeable cluster. Examples of composite flowers include dandelions, sunflowers, and daisies.
6. Umbellate
An umbellate flower is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in a flat or rounded umbrella shape, with each individual flower attached to a central stem. Examples of umbellate flowers include Queen Anne's lace, yarrow, and dill.
7. Spike
A spike flower is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in a single, unbranched line. Examples of spike flowers include lupines, snapdragons, and gladiolus.
8. Raceme
A raceme flower is similar to a spike flower in that it is made up of many small flowers arranged in a line. However, the individual flowers are attached to the central stem by short, individual stems. Examples of raceme flowers include delphiniums, phlox, and hyssop.
9. Panicle
A panicle flower is made up of multiple, branched racemes that are attached to a central stem. Examples of panicle flowers include lilacs, oats, and astilbes.
10. Corymb
A corymb flower is similar to a panicle flower in that it is made up of multiple, branched racemes. However, the branches of the racemes are attached at different levels on the central stem, giving the flower a more flattened appearance. Examples of corymb flowers include baby's breath, hawthorn, and meadowsweet.
11. Cyme
A cyme flower is made up of many small flowers that are arranged in a flat or rounded cluster. The central flowers usually open first, with the outer flowers opening later. Examples of cyme flowers include hydrangeas, elderflower, and yuccas.
12. Head
A head flower is similar to a composite flower in that it is made up of many small flowers. However, the individual flowers are tightly packed together to form a solid, rounded shape. Examples of head flowers include thistles, dahlias, and chrysanthemums.
Conclusion
There are many different shapes of flowers, each with their own unique features and functions. Understanding these different types of floral structures can be useful for those who are interested in gardening or just enjoy looking at flowers. No matter which type of flower you prefer, there is always something beautiful and interesting to discover.
