Ovary

The part of the pistil that encloses the unfertilized seeds or ovules, and that typically develops into a dry or fleshy fruit once pollination takes place. The ovary is generally central to the flower, and supports the other principle parts. Whether they are attached at the top (ovary inferior) or the bottom (ovary superior) is an important anatomical characteristic for classification. Not all “fruits” are mature ovaries; some form from supporting parts of the flower, for example, strawberries develop from the receptacle – the enlarged top of the flower stalk.

Related Images:

Visit our InfoTIP Glossary