Gynoecium

Definition

The gynoecium is the female reproductive part of a flower, consisting of one or more units called carpels. Each carpel contains an ovary, style, and stigma.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The gynoecium is also known as the pistil in some contexts.
2. Carpels can be free (apocarpous) or fused together (syncarpous).
3. The ovary at the base of the gynoecium houses ovules which develop into seeds after fertilization.
4. The stigma is the part that receives pollen during pollination.
5. The style connects the stigma to the ovary and acts as a conduit for pollen tubes to reach the ovules.

Review Questions

Related terms

stamen:

The male reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of an anther and a filament.

ovule: A structure within the ovary that develops into a seed after fertilization.

pollination:

The transfer of pollen from an anther to a stigma, enabling fertilization and seed production.