petal

Petal is an often conspicuous, leaf-like organ that forms the corolla, the part of the flower’s perianth that surrounds the reproductive organs. Petals are typically modified leaves and are usually colorful, scented, and patterned to attract pollinators. The perianth consists of the calyx (sepals) and the corolla (petals).

Petals vary widely in size, shape, color, texture, and venation. They can be free from one another or fused at the base to form a tube, a funnel, or a landing platform. The number of petals is often characteristic of a species: in many dicot flowers the corolla has four or five petals; in many monocots petals and sepals are arranged in threes and may appear similar, sometimes making the distinction between petals and sepals difficult. Some flowers have numerous petals, while others are apetalous, lacking petals altogether. In some plant groups, certain petals are highly modified, such as the lip (or labellum) in orchids, which helps guide pollinators.

Functionally, petals primarily attract pollinators and guide them to the nectar and reproductive organs. They may provide a landing surface and produce scents or nectar guides, including patterns visible or accessible under ultraviolet light to pollinators such as bees.

Petal development and arrangement are key features in flower morphology and taxonomy. They interact with pollination strategies and environmental factors, contributing to the diversity of floral forms seen across flowering plants.