spadix

noun

spa·​dix ˈspā-diks 

plural spadices ˈspā-də-ˌsēz 

: a floral spike with a fleshy or succulent axis usually enclosed in a spathe

Illustration of spadix

• 1 spadix

Examples of spadix in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The actual flowers are contained on the spadix — a yellow spike shape. — Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Mar. 2026

These white leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for the rod-like spadix, which contains the true peace lily blossoms. — Samantha Johnson, Martha Stewart, 6 Feb. 2026

The thermogenic organ itself is the spadix, the central spike inside the hooded spathe. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 19 Mar. 2026

Inside the spathe is a 2-inch-long spadix upon which miniature button-like yellow flowers reside. — Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin spadic-, spadix, from Latin, frond torn from a palm tree, from Greek spadik-, spadix, from span to draw, pull

First Known Use

circa 1752, in the meaning defined above