
verticillaster [ vur-tuh-si-LAS-ter ] noun: a mixed inflorescence consisting of two opposite dichasial cymes


Flower clusters of nearly sessile, dichasial cymes arise from a single point in the nodes of opposite leaf axils. These verticillasters are sometimes referred to as false whorls as they give that appearance when the two flower clusters are crowded and meet each other on the stem. Verticillasters are usually found in the Lamiaceae (formerly Labiatae, mint or sage family).





Pycnanthemum muticum in July. Photo © Mary Free