Dehiscence is the splitting of a mature plant structure along a built-in line of weakness to release its contents. This is common among fruits, anthers and sporangia. Sometimes this involves the complete detachment of a part. Structures that open in this way are said to be dehiscent. Structures that do not open in this way are called indehiscent, and rely on other mechanisms such as decay or predation to release the contents.
Dehiscence of the follicular fruit of milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) revealing seeds within
Septicidal dehiscence. The septa between the locules of Ledum palustre capsules split as the fruit opens, and the seeds are released.
Loculicidal dehiscence. The locules of Lagerstroemia capsules split as the fruit opens, and the septa remain intact.
Loculicidal dehiscence in Peganum harmala
In botany, a fruit is the seed-bearing structure in flowering plants that is formed from the ovary after flowering.
Various fruits arranged at a stall at the Municipal Market of São Paulo
Fresh fruit mix of blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries
An arrangement of fruits commonly thought of as culinary vegetables, including corn (maize), tomatoes, and various squash
Pomegranate fruit – whole and piece with arils