Organogenesis of the female reproductive structure of Myrica pensylvanica

Abstract

The female reproductive structure of Myrica pensylvanica comprises a gynoecium and four second-order inflorescence bracts. The gynoecium terminates the second-order inflorescence axis. The receptacle, comprising second- and third-order inflorescence axis tissue, forms most of the gynoecial wall and gives rise to the wax-secreting papillae. Papillae, which are vascularized, are not initiated in the same manner as trichomes. An hypothesis is formulated whereby papillae may be homologized to inflorescence bracts.