spadix

A specialized type of inflorescence in which the usually tiny flowers are crowded on a fleshy, cylindrical axis, generally enveloped by a large bract - the spathe. It is typical of, but not confined to, the arum family Araceae.

spadices) is a type of spike: an inflorescence with small flowers crowded on a thickened, fleshy axis. In these flower heads there is typically also a spathe present: a large, usually showy and solitary, bract that either subtends (lies just below) or partially encloses the spadix.

In monoecious aroids (possessing separate male and female flowers, but with both flowers present on one plant), the spadix is usually organized with female flowers towards the bottom and male flowers towards the top. In aroids with perfect flowers the stigma is no longer receptive when the pollen is released, thus preventing self-fertilization.