corymbosus

Corymbosus is a term used in botany to describe a specific type of inflorescence, which is the arrangement of flowers on a plant. In a corymbosus inflorescence, the flowers are borne on pedicels (stalks) of unequal length. The lower pedicels are longer, while the upper ones are shorter, resulting in a flattened or convex top surface where all the flowers reach approximately the same level. This arrangement is often compared to an umbrella or a corymb.

This type of inflorescence is characteristic of many plant species, particularly within the family Apiaceae (formerly Umbelliferae), though it can also be found in other plant families. The primary function of a corymbosus inflorescence is to present a large, unified display of flowers, which can be more attractive to pollinators than solitary flowers or other types of arrangements. The even presentation allows insects to easily access the nectar and pollen.

Examples of plants that commonly exhibit corymbosus inflorescences include species of carrots, parsley, dill, and Queen Anne's lace. While the term specifically refers to the shape of the flower cluster, it is often used as a descriptive adjective in plant identification and classification. The precise structure and appearance of a corymbosus inflorescence can vary slightly between different species, but the fundamental principle of flowers reaching the same level due to unequal pedicel lengths remains consistent.