Panicles

A panicle is a type of inflorescence common in flowering plants. It is a branched, compound arrangement in which the main axis bears multiple branchlets, and those branchlets carry individual flowers or spikelets. The flowers are typically pedicellate, and the overall form can range from compact and pyramidal to loose and elongated. Because of the branching, a panicle often increases the display area of the flowers and can show a staggered bloom.

Structure and terminology: A panicle is considered a branched raceme, distinguished by its branching pattern. Each primary branch may support secondary branches, which in turn bear flowers. The sequence of flowering can proceed from the base toward the tip or vary by species. Panicles are especially common in grasses and many ornamental plants.

Examples and distribution: Hydrangea paniculata is well known for its prominent, cone-shaped panicles of small blossoms. In cereals and related grasses, panicles occur in oats (Avena), sorghum (Sorghum), and rice (Oryza), where the branched inflorescence bears multiple spikelets. The panicle form can influence aspects of pollination, seed dispersal, and ornamental value in horticulture.

See also: Inflorescence types, Raceme, Cymose inflorescence.