1. (of a flower) lacking petals or having petals that are not visible or functional
Usage: botanical term; used in plant classification and description

Examples

• The apetalous flowers of the elm tree are wind-pollinated rather than insect-pollinated.
• Many grasses have apetalous flowers that rely on air currents for reproduction.
• Botanists classify this species as apetalous because its flowers lack distinct petals.
• The apetalous condition in some plants is an adaptation to their environment.
• Unlike roses, these apetalous flowers are inconspicuous and greenish in color.