Pod shapeThe shape of mature pods (i.e. bearing ripe seeds) in plan (or outline). Note that the description of pod shape is at best approximate, given that there exists a full range of variation between each idealised shape (e.g. ovate may approximate orbicular, oblong or linear), making interpretations somewhat subjective. Further complications arise from variation between individuals of a taxon or within an individual specimen. Immature pods may differ in shape from mature ones. Users should take a relatively broad interpretation of pod shape, and enter the most commonly observed condition(s). Return to Character index |
LinearVery narrow in relation to length (length:width ratio greater than 10-15) and sides roughly parallel (e.g. Lotus australis). |
OblongLonger than wide by a few to several times (length:width ratio up to 10) and with sides parallel or almost so (e.g. Tephrosia rosea). |
EllipticOval in shape, symmetrical about the middle, i.e. like a squashed circle (e.g. Castanospermum australe). |
CircularRound in shape, or nearly so (e.g. Gompholobium aristatum). |
OvateShaped like a longitudinal section through an egg and broader below the middle, i.e. towards the point of attachment (e.g. Chorizema cytisoides). |
ObovateShaped like a longitudinal section through an egg and broader above the middle, i.e. away from the point of attachment (e.g. Swainsona affinis). |
TriangularThree angled, as in Daviesia villifera. |
MoniliformWith regular constrictions along its length, i.e. like a string of beads (e.g. Sophora tomentosa). |
Transversely jointedWith joins between the seeds, i.e. splitting into indehiscent segments (e.g. Cajanus aromaticus). |
Constricted along one marginWith constrictions along one margin, the other margin more or less entire (splitting into usually indehiscent segments (e.g. Aeschynomene americana). |
OtherShapes that do not readily fit into one of the above categories. Examples include strongly coiled pods such as Medicago polymorpha, and ‘lunate’ (cresent shaped) pods such as Astragalus hamosus. |