Umbels are a type of inflorescence, or flower cluster, characterized by a central point from which multiple flower stalks, called pedicels, radiate outward like the ribs of an umbrella. The arrangement of flowers in an umbel gives it a flat or slightly rounded shape with a central axis. Umbels are found in a variety of plant families, including the Apiaceae (carrot family), Apiaceae (parsley family), and Araliaceae (ginseng family), among others.

Key features of umbels include:

1. **Central Axis**: Umbels have a central point or axis, known as the receptacle, from which the flower stalks arise. This central axis gives the umbel its characteristic shape and structure.

2. **Radiating Pedicels**: Flower stalks, called pedicels, radiate outward from the central axis of the umbel, typically in a more or less flat or rounded arrangement. Each pedicel bears one or more individual flowers, which may be arranged in clusters or singly along the length of the pedicel.

3. **Types of Umbels**: Umbels can be classified into different types based on their arrangement and structure. The two main types of umbels are simple umbels and compound umbels. In a simple umbel, all the pedicels arise from a single point on the central axis. In a compound umbel, the main peduncle (stalk) of the umbel branches into secondary umbels, each with its own set of pedicels.

4. **Floral Diversity**: Umbels can vary in size, shape, and floral composition depending on the species. Some umbels may have numerous small flowers densely packed together, while others may have fewer, larger flowers spaced along the pedicels. The flowers in an umbel may be radially symmetrical (actinomorphic) or bilaterally symmetrical (zygomorphic), depending on the species.

5. **Pollination and Seed Dispersal**: Umbels are adapted for efficient pollination and seed dispersal. The open, flat structure of the umbel allows pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and flies to easily access the flowers and transfer pollen between them. After pollination, the seeds produced by the flowers are often arranged in clusters within the mature fruit, known as a schizocarp, which splits apart to release the seeds for dispersal.

Examples of plants with umbel inflorescences include carrots (Daucus carota), parsley (Petroselinum crispum), dill (Anethum graveolens), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), and Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), among others. Umbels are valued for their ornamental and culinary uses and are characteristic features of many herbaceous and woody plant species.

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