Question

Go through the following matches regarding the flower.

(i) Mustard	Epigynous
(ii) Plum	Perigynous
(iii) Hibiscus	Epigynous
(iv) Peach	Perigynous

Which of these are correct?

• A. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
• B. (ii) and (iv)
• C. (iii) and (iv)
• D. (i), (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Based on the position of the ovary, flowers can be classified into 3 types: hypogynous, perigynous and epigynous.
When sepals, petals and stamens are attached to the receptacle below the ovary, it is known as hypogynous. In this case, the ovary is said to be superior. Examples are flowers of hibiscus, mustard, tomato, tulip and snapdragon.
When sepals, petals and stamens are combined at the base to form a cup-shaped structure called a hypanthium which is inserted beneath the ovary, it is known as perigynous. The ovary, in this case, also is superior. Example: cherry, plum/prunus, peach.
When sepals, petals and stamens arise from the top of the ovary, or from a hypanthium inserted above the ovary, it is known as epigynous. The ovary of an epigynous flower is inferior. Example: Cucumber, daffodil, lily.