epicalyx

[ep-i-key-liks, -kal-iks]

noun

Botany.

plural

epicalyxes, epicalyces 

1. an involucre resembling an outer calyx, as in the mallow.

epicalyx

/ -ˈkæl-, ˌɛpɪˈkeɪlɪks /

noun

1. botany a series of small sepal-like bracts forming an outer calyx beneath the true calyx in some flowers

Word History and Origins

Origin of epicalyx¹

First recorded in 1865–70; epi- + calyx

Example Sentences

These structures are of the nature of an epicalyx.

From Project Gutenberg

Pleiotaxy or repetition of the calyx.—The true calyx is very seldom affected in this manner, unless such organs as the epicalyx of mallows, Potentilla, &c., be considered as really parts of the calyx.

From Project Gutenberg

In Potentilla and allied genera an epicalyx is formed by the development of stipules from the sepals, which form an apparent outer calyx, the parts of which alternate with the true sepals.

From Project Gutenberg

In Malvaceae an epicalyx is formed by the bracteoles.

From Project Gutenberg

In some Rosaceous plants an epicalyx is present, due to the formation of stipulary structures by the sepals.

From Project Gutenberg