Question

Edible part of cauliflower is
A. Cotyledons
B. Mesocarp
C. Endocarp
D. Inflorescence

Answer 1

Hint: The edible part (head) of the cauliflower is a complex structure that includes a green leafy jacket enclosing the white part which is known as curd.

Complete answer:
The edible part of cauliflower is the inflorescence meristem.
- Cauliflower belongs to the species Brassica oleracea from the family Brassicaceae.
- The word "cauliflower" is derived from the Italian word cavolfiore, meaning "cabbage flower". It has a Latin origin and can be broken into ‘caulis' (cabbage) and 'flos’ (flower).

Additional Information:
- When plants begin flowering, the shoot apical meristem is transformed into an inflorescence meristem. This meristem is responsible for forming floral meristem, which then gives rise to the sepals, petals, stamens, and carpels of the flower.
- Mesocarp is the middle, edible, fleshy part of fruit whereas endocarp is the innermost part of the pulp of fruit covering the seed. They can be either edible or non-edible.
- Cauliflower is a rich source of vitamin B, fibers, and antioxidants.
- Cauliflower contains several non-nutrient phytochemicals common in the cabbage family including isothiocyanates and glucosinolates.
- The edible part of the cauliflower can be mainly of four different colors, white, purple, orange, and green (broccoli).
- The orange color of the cauliflower is due to the presence of a pigment called beta carotene. The purple color is provided by the anthocyanins to them.

So, the correct answer is ‘Inflorescence'.

Note:
- Cauliflower resembles broccoli in having a similar head but differs in having flower buds as the edible portion.
- Brassica oleracea also includes broccoli, cabbage, collard greens, and kale, etc. which are collectively called "cole" crops.
- Cauliflower serves as a low-calorie and gluten-free vegetable.