Define the term inflorescence. Explain the basis for the different types of inflorescence in flowering plants.
The arrangement and distribution of flowers on the floral axis are termed inflorescence. Depending on whether the apex gets converted into a flower or continues to grow, two major types of inflorescences are defined – racemose and cymose. In the racemose type of inflorescence, the main axis continues to grow, the flowers are borne laterally in acropetal succession, i. e., older flowers are at the base and younger flowers are at the top. In cymose type of inflorescence, the main axis terminates in a flower, hence is limited in growth. The flowers are borne in a basipetal order, i.e., younger flowers are near the base and older
