Ovary

Definition

The ovary is the part of the flower that contains ovules and develops into fruit after fertilization. It is a vital component of the female reproductive organ in angiosperms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ovary is located at the base of the pistil in a flower.
2. After fertilization, the ovary matures into fruit, which encases the seeds.
3. Ovaries can be classified as superior or inferior based on their position relative to other floral parts.
4. Each ovule within an ovary has the potential to develop into a seed following fertilization.
5. The structure and position of ovaries are key characteristics used in plant identification and classification.

Review Questions

• Where is the ovary located in a flower?
• What happens to the ovary after fertilization?
• How are ovaries classified based on their position relative to other floral parts?

Related terms

Pistil: The female reproductive part of a flower, consisting of an ovary, style, and stigma.

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

Fruit: The mature ovary of a flower that typically protects and disperses seeds.