Description

• Flowers are considered to be stunted shoots in which the leaves have been modified to form and then house the reproductive organs. They can have either male or female organs, or both. When and how a flower develops is genetically programmed.
  
  

Sepals

• The sepals are the first organs of the flower to form and their primary role is to protect the flower while it is developing. Together the sepals form the calyx, located at the base of what will be the flower. Sepals are green and resemble leaves.
  
  

Bracteoles

• Tiny leaves called bracteoles sometimes form prior to the sepals. Usually once the sepals form they stop growing. In some flowers, such as the snowdrop, the bracteoles help protect the flower until opening.
  
  

The Bud

• The sepals form a bud, or protective casing, around the developing flower. When the flower matures, the sepals fold back to show its colorful petals. In some cases the sepals fall off entirely.
  
  

The Petals

• The petals surround the carpels, the female organs that produce the ovules and the stamens, the male organs that produce pollen at their tips, called anthers. Once pollinated, the ovules change into seeds.
  
  

Nectar Holders

• Sometimes sepals and petals form tubes that hold nectar and further protect the flower's reproductive organs. Bluebells and primrose flowers are good examples.