What is the Difference Between Racemose and Cymose Inflorescence?

The main difference between racemose and cymose inflorescence lies in the growth of the main axis and the arrangement of flowers along it. Here are the key differences between the two types of inflorescence:

1. Growth of the main axis: In racemose inflorescence, the main axis continues to grow indefinitely, while in cymose inflorescence, the main axis has limited growth and eventually terminates in a flower.
2. Arrangement of flowers: In racemose inflorescence, flowers are borne laterally on the main axis, and younger flowers are present at the tip while older flowers are arranged at the base (acropetal succession). In cymose inflorescence, flowers are borne terminally on the main axis, and younger flowers are present at the base, while older flowers are at the top (basipetal succession).

In summary, racemose inflorescence is characterized by the continuous growth of the main axis and acropetal succession of flowers, while cymose inflorescence is characterized by limited growth of the main axis and basipetal succession of flowers.

Comparative Table: Racemose vs Cymose Inflorescence

Here is a table comparing the differences between racemose and cymose inflorescence:

In summary, racemose inflorescence has a main axis that continues to grow indefinitely, with flowers borne laterally and maturing in acropetal succession. Cymose inflorescence, on the other hand, has a limited growth main axis that terminates in a flower, with flowers borne terminally and maturing in basipetal succession.