CHAPTER XVIII
THE FLOWER—ITS PARTS AND FORMS
The function of the flower is to produce seed. It is
probable that all its varied forms and colors contribute
to this supreme end. These forms and colors please the
human fancy and add to the joy of living, but the flower
exists for the good of the plant, not for the good of man.
The parts of the flower are of two general kinds—those
that are directly concerned in the production of seeds, and
those that act as covering and protecting organs. The
former parts are known as the essential organs; the latter
as the floral envelopes.
Envelopes.—The floral envelopes usually bear a close resemblance to leaves. These envelopes are very commonly of two series or kinds—the outer and the inner. The outer series, known as the calyx, is usually smaller and green. It usually comprises the outer cover of the flower bud. The calyx is the lowest whorl in Fig. 173.
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Fig. 173.—Flower Of A Buttercup in Section.
The inner series, known as the corolla, is usually colored and more special or irregular in shape than the calyx. It is the showy part of the flower, as a rule. The corolla is the second or large whorl in Fig. 173.
The calyx may be composed of several leaves. Each leaf is a sepal. If it is of one piece, it may be lobed or divided, in which case the divisions are called calyx-lobes.
