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Inflorescences

 11-Spike

[FMP-field: image]
Spike- an unbranched, indeterminate inflorescence in which the flowers are without pedicels, that is the flowers are sessile.

The adjective is "spicate."

Both of these spikes are from prairie plants. On the left is Culver's root (Veronicastrum virginicum) and on the right is scented ladies' tresses orchid (Spiranthes magnicamporum). Note the bracts at the base of each flower of Spiranthes.

Photo by K. R. Robertson of plants growing wild in two Illinois prairies.
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