A corolla is the collection of petals in a flower. It's the often brightly colored part that surrounds the reproductive organs (stamens and pistil) and attracts pollinators. Think of it as the flower's showy crown.
Understanding the Corolla
The corolla is a crucial part of a flower's structure. It plays a vital role in the plant's reproductive process. Here's a breakdown:
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Definition: The corolla is the collective term for the petals of a flower, forming the inner whorl of the perianth (the outer parts of a flower, encompassing both calyx and corolla). The petals can be separate or fused together. Merriam-Webster defines it as "the part of a flower that consists of the separate or fused petals and constitutes the inner whorl of the perianth."
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Function: The primary function of the corolla is to attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Its vibrant colors and sometimes fragrant scent draw these animals in, which in turn transfer pollen, enabling fertilization and seed production.
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Structure: The shape, size, and color of the corolla vary widely depending on the plant species. Petals can be fused (forming a tube or bell shape) or free (separate). The corolla's structure is a key characteristic used in plant identification. For example, a sunflower's "ray" is actually comprised of fused corolla lobes (petals). iNaturalist
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Examples: Many flowers display striking corollas. Think of the delicate petals of a rose, the trumpet-like corolla of a daffodil, or the fused petals of a snapdragon.
Note that "corolla" also refers to a type of Toyota car, but that's a separate meaning entirely.
