Seed shape

The shape of the seed, in plan view (i.e. a section through the longest axis).

Return to Character index

Bean-shaped

Roughly kidney-shaped (reniform), with the ends lobed on either side of the hilum.

Square or oblong

Roughly square with all sides more or less equal, or oblong with sides longer than wide by a few to several times.

Triangular

With three sides and broadest below the middle.

Elliptic or ovate or obovate

The seed is rounded at both ends, or egg shaped (i.e. ovate or obovate, broader at one end). Rounded, symmetrical about the middle or broader below the middle or broader above the middle.