Question

Flowers are zygomorphic in
A. Datura
B. Mustard
C. Gulmohar
D. Tomato

Answer 1

Hint: Symmetrical flowers are of two types: actinomorphic and zygomorphic. Zygomorphic flowers exhibit bilateral symmetry. These flowers can be cut into two halves only in a single vertical plane.

Complete answer:
Flowers are the reproductive structure of flowering plants (angiosperms). Based on their symmetry, flowers are actinomorphic or zygomorphic. The flowers that do not exhibit either type of symmetry are called irregular or asymmetrical flowers.
When the floral appendages of different whorls are arranged in a pattern that allows the flower to be divided into two halves in any plane passing through its center, the flower is said to be actinomorphic. Actinomorphic flowers exhibit radial symmetry. Examples of actinomorphic flowers are rose, tulip, mustard, datura, and tomato.
On the other hand, the floral whorls in Gulmohar are arranged in such a way that it can be divided into two halves only through a single plane. Gulmohar belongs to the Fabaceae (Leguminosae) family of the order Fabales. It has a papilionaceous corolla with five petals. The largest petal overlaps the two lateral petals called wings while the two anterior petals are the smallest ones. Due to this specific arrangement of petals in the corolla, the flower exhibits bilateral symmetry. Therefore, Gulmohar is an example of a zygomorphic flower.

So, the answer is option C. Gulmohar.

Note: Gulmohar belongs to the subfamily Caesalpinioideae of the family Leguminosae. Some of the characteristic features of this sub family are the presence of five sepals and five petals in calyx and corolla respectively. It exhibits ascending imbricate aestivation.