Sepaleita

Sepaleita is a term used in botany to describe the condition of a flower where the sepals are fused together. Sepals are the outer whorl of the flower, typically green, leaf-like structures that protect the flower bud. In sepaleita, these sepals are united, forming a single, continuous structure. This fusion can occur at various points along the sepals, resulting in different shapes and sizes of the fused sepals. The degree of fusion can range from a slight joining at the base to a complete fusion that forms a tube-like structure. Sepaleita is a common feature in many plant families, including the Asteraceae and Fabaceae. It is often associated with the development of the flower's corolla and the arrangement of its reproductive parts. The fusion of sepals can provide structural support and protection for the developing flower, as well as influence its overall appearance and pollination strategies.