Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
pappus
noun
/ˈpap.əs/
Definition
A tuft of hairs or bristles on the seeds of certain plants, especially those in the daisy family, helping in wind dispersal.
Examples
- The dandelion’s pappus allows its seeds to float away effortlessly in the breeze.
- Many asteraceous plants have a pappus that aids survival by enabling seed dispersal over long distances.
- The fluffy pappus of the common thistle is a familiar sight in summer fields.
Meaning
The term refers to a specialized form of soft extensions or appendages that aid in the dispersal of seeds by wind.
Synonyms
- Plume
- Tuft
