Vexillary aestivation is characteristic of the family

Options

A. Asteraceae
B. Solanaceae
C. Brassicaceae
D. Fabaceae

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Estivation**: Estivation refers to the arrangement of sepals and petals in a flower. It is important to know that sepals (the green parts) form the calyx, while petals (the colorful parts) form the corolla.

2. **Identifying Vexillary Estivation**: Vexillary estivation is a specific type of floral arrangement where the petals are arranged in a particular pattern. In this arrangement, one petal (the standard) is positioned above the other petals (the wings), and the two wings are on either side of a lower petal (the keel).

3. **Recognizing the Families**: The question provides four options: Astraceae, Solanaceae, Brassicaceae, and Fabaceae. To determine which family exhibits vexillary estivation, we need to analyze the characteristics of each family.

4. **Identifying the Correct Family**: Vexillary estivation is characteristic of the family Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae). This family includes plants such as peas and lentils, which display this specific arrangement of petals.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that vexillary estivation is characteristic of the family **Fabaceae**.

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