Question

The ovary in hypogynous flowers is said to be:
A. Half inferior
B. Inferior
C. Superior
D. None of the above

Answer 1

In hypogynous flowers, the perianth (the calyx and corolla compose the perianth) and stamens are attached to the receptacle below the gynoecium. The ovary is said to be superior as compared to other floral parts.

Complete answer: An ovary is a part of the female reproductive organ or also called gynoecium. It is the part of the pistil which holds the ovule that can be located below or above at the point of connection with the base of sepals and petals. The position of the ovary with respect to the other floral parts on the thalamus can be superior, inferior, half-superior and half-inferior. When the ovary is superior to the other floral organs, then the flower is said to be a hypogynous flower. A superior ovary is found in types of fleshy fruits such as true berries, drupes, etc. Some examples of flowers with superior ovary are buttercup, magnolia, etc. Hypogynous flowers are seen in family Fabaceae. When the ovary is inferior to the other floral organs, the flowers are called epigynous, Examples; apple, pear, aster, etc. Asteraceae families have epigynous flowers. When the ovary is half-inferior, the flowers are called perigynous flowers. Eg. rose, cherry, peach, etc.
Hence, the correct answer is option C.

Note: The terminology of the positions of ovaries is determined by the insertion point, where the other floral parts (perianth and androecium) come together and attach to the surface of the ovary. If the ovary is situated above the insertion point, it is superior; if below, inferior.