Spadix

Spadix a form of inflorescence characterised by a fleshy peduncle and sessile flowers. It may be simple - i.e. a spike (q.v.), as in aroids, or branched, as in some palms. The flowers on a spadix are often, but not always, unisexual, and are sometimes sunk in its fleshy surface. The spadix is generally enclosed in a large sheathing bract or spathe (q.v.). and is the characteristic inflorescence of a series of Nudifloral Monocotyledons, the Spadiciflorae. The spadix of the common lords-and-ladies (Arum maculatum) is somewhat exceptional in its large club-shaped starchy appendix beyond its flower-bearing portion.