In`flo*res"cence (?), n. [L.
inflorescens, p. pr. of inflorescere to begin to
blossom; pref. in- in + florescere to begin to blossom:
cf. F. inflorescence. See Florescent.]
1. A flowering; the putting forth and unfolding
of blossoms.
2. (Bot.) (a) The mode
of flowering, or the general arrangement and disposition of the
flowers with reference to the axis, and to each other.
(b) An axis on which all the buds are flower
buds.
Inflorescence affords an excellent
characteristic mark in distinguishing the species of
plants.
Milne.Centrifugal inflorescence,
determinate
inflorescence. --
Centripetal inflorescence,
indeterminate inflorescence. See under Determinate, and
Indeterminate.