epicalyx
/ˌɛpɪˈkeɪlɪks/
noun
- A group of small leaves or bracts that surround the calyx of a flower, often looking like an extra set of sepals.
- The epicalyx of the hibiscus is green and leaf-like, adding an extra layer around the bud.
- The strawberry flower has an epicalyx that helps protect the developing fruit.
- Botany students examined the epicalyx under a microscope to identify the plant species.