umbellae

An umbel is a flower cluster arranged in a manner where all the flower stalks grow from a single point and spread outward like umbrella ribs. This arrangement is characteristic of plants in the family Apiaceae, formerly known as Umbelliferae, which includes well-known species like carrots, parsley, dill, and fennel. The term "umbel" is derived from the Latin word for "umbrella," aptly describing the visual appearance of this inflorescence.

Umbels can be simple or compound. A simple umbel has a single stalk, called a peduncle, that branches into individual flower stalks, known as pedicels, all originating from the same apex. In contrast, a compound umbel consists of a main umbel (the umbellet) which, in turn, bears smaller umbels, also called umbellets or secondary umbels. Each umbellet is composed of several small flowers, typically with tiny petals and prominent stamens and pistils.

The structure of the umbel is evolutionarily advantageous, allowing many flowers to be presented to pollinators in a concentrated area, increasing the efficiency of pollination. Many plants in the Apiaceae family produce characteristic fruits called schizocarps, which are dry fruits that split into two single-seeded segments. The umbel arrangement is a key identifying feature for many plants in this diverse and economically important family.