Kelchblättern

Kelchblätter, also known as sepals, are a fundamental part of a flower's structure. They are typically the outermost whorl of floral organs, enclosing and protecting the developing bud. In many species, kelchblätter are green and leaf-like, performing a photosynthetic function before the flower opens. However, their appearance can vary significantly, with some being brightly colored and petal-like, or even reduced to small scales.

The number of kelchblätter in a flower is usually consistent within a plant family, often numbering three, four, or five. They can be separate (polysepalous) or fused together to form a tube or cup (gamosepalous). The collective term for all the kelchblätter of a flower is the calyx. The calyx plays a crucial role in the early stages of flower development, safeguarding the more delicate inner floral parts from mechanical damage and desiccation.

After the flower has opened and pollination has occurred, the kelchblätter often wither and fall off, or they may persist and become associated with the developing fruit. In some cases, such as with strawberries, the persistent kelchblätter become fleshy and edible, contributing to the fruit's structure and appeal. Their specific form and function can provide important characteristics for plant identification and classification.