polygamodioecious

Polygamodioecious is a term used in botany to describe a plant species that exhibits a combination of sexual reproductive systems. Specifically, it refers to species that are both polygamous and dioecious. Polygamy means that a single plant can bear both bisexual flowers (having both male and female reproductive organs) and unisexual flowers (having either male or female reproductive organs). Dioecious means that the individual plants within the species are either functionally male or functionally female.

Therefore, a polygamodioecious species will have individual plants that are either male or female, consistent with dioecy. However, on these male or female plants, there can be a mix of flower types. A male plant might produce purely male flowers, or it might produce both male flowers and a few bisexual flowers that are functionally male (meaning they don't produce viable seeds). Similarly, a female plant might produce purely female flowers, or it might produce both female flowers and a few bisexual flowers that are functionally female (meaning they can be pollinated but may not produce viable seeds). This sexual system can lead to complex breeding patterns and genetic diversity within the population. Examples of polygamodioecious plants are found in various families, including some species of oak and maple.