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Daisy
pappus In Asteraceae the calyx is modified into a special structure called a pappus. This is often feathery and used in wind dispersal of the seed. It can range from large and conspicuous (think of dandelion seeds), or reduced to a short rim, or even absent. In some species the pappus is of scales rather than bristles. Some daisies have other hairs or scales - these are not the pappus unless they are attached in a ring above the ovary. |
This shows a pappus of bristles. Note that it is attached in a ring, above the ovary. The corolla tube has fallen off this flower. | This shows the base of a flower with long hairs and a pappus of scales. NB, The hairs cover the ovary, the pappus is attached above the ovary. | ||
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