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verticillate

verticillate

9.9
Leaves or other parts that grow in a circle around a stem
  • adjective
  • /ˈvɜːrtɪsɪleɪt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : verticilado
  • The leaves of the plant are verticillate, forming a circle at each node along the stem.

Examples

  • The leaves of the plant are verticillate, arranged in whorls around the stem.

  • Some aquatic plants display verticillate branching patterns that distinguish them from others.

  • In botany exams, students often have to identify verticillate leaf arrangements.

  • The verticillate leaves create a stunning visual effect.

  • Many plants exhibit verticillate leaf arrangements.

  • In botany, a verticillate arrangement can help identify certain tree species.

  • Some flowers have verticillate petals that grow in circles around their centers.

Synonyms

verticillated
vsverticillate
  • Specialized
9.9

Leaves or branches set in a ring around a stem

says the same arrangement but used as a general botanical term
whorled
vsverticillate
  • Specialized
8.6

Arranged in a circle or spiral around a plant stem

emphasizes distinct whorls rather than general circular or spiral layouts
cyclic
vsverticillate
  • Specialized
6.8

Has petals or other plant parts arranged in circles around the stem

refers to whorls around a stem rather than mainly floral rings

Surface Forms

verticillate positive

Morphology

verticillate = verticil (opaque) = verticil + ate

The morphological step from the noun 'verticil' to the adjective with '-ate' is a regular, transparent derivation.

Etymology

The word verticillate comes from the Latin verticillus, meaning 'a little whirl', and is related to the familiar words vertical and vertex. So verticillate describes leaves or parts that form a circle around a stem, like a small whirl.