sepalum
A sepalum is a structure found in some biological contexts, often referring to a component of a flower or a protective covering. In the realm of botany, sepals are the outermost whorl of floral leaves, typically green and leaf-like, that enclose and protect the developing bud. Collectively, these sepals are known as the calyx. In some species, the sepals may be modified in shape, color, or texture, sometimes resembling petals or performing other functions. The term sepalum can be used as a singular or collective noun for these structures. Beyond flowers, variations of protective coverings in other biological entities might also be described using related terminology, though "sepalum" is most strongly associated with floral anatomy. The precise function and appearance of a sepalum can vary significantly depending on the specific plant species.