multipetal

Multipetal refers to a characteristic found in some plants, specifically concerning the arrangement and number of petals on their flowers. Typically, a flower has a specific, often low, number of petals, such as three, four, or five. However, in multipetal varieties, the number of petals is significantly increased beyond the usual count. This can manifest in a variety of ways, from a doubling of the normal petal number to a profusion of delicate, often layered, petals.

This condition is frequently the result of genetic mutations or selective breeding. For example, in many cultivated roses and dahlias, multipetaly has been intentionally enhanced to create visually striking blooms with a fuller appearance. This trait can also occur naturally in some wild species, though it is less common. The increased petal count can influence the flower's overall shape, size, and texture, often making the bloom appear more ornate or "double." While aesthetically pleasing and often a desirable trait in horticulture, multipetaly can sometimes impact the plant's reproductive capabilities, as the increased petals may obscure or impede the reproductive structures like stamens and pistils, potentially reducing seed production. The term is primarily descriptive and used in botanical and horticultural contexts.