dichlamydeous

Dichlamydeous is a term used in botany to describe a type of flower where the corolla (the petals) are fused together to form a tube or cylinder. This characteristic is in contrast to gamopetalous flowers, where the petals are free and separate. The term "dichlamydeous" is derived from the Greek words "di," meaning two, and "chlamys," meaning cloak or garment, reflecting the two-lipped structure of the corolla.

The corolla of a dichlamydeous flower typically consists of two distinct lips: the upper lip, which is often larger and may be lobed or toothed, and the lower lip, which is usually smaller and may be bilobed. The upper lip often contains the nectar guides, which direct pollinators to the nectar-producing structures within the flower. The lower lip may contain the stamens, which are the male reproductive organs.

Dichlamydeous flowers are found in various plant families, including the Lamiaceae (mint family), Fabaceae (legume family), and Scrophulariaceae (figwort family). Examples of plants with dichlamydeous flowers include the common mint (Mentha spp.), the sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus), and the figwort (Scrophularia nodosa).

The dichlamydeous structure of the corolla is thought to have evolved as an adaptation to attract specific pollinators. The two-lipped structure allows for the efficient transfer of pollen and nectar, facilitating the reproduction of the plant.