What is the outer part of a flower that encloses a developing bud called?

The outer part of a flower that encloses a developing bud is known as the sepal. Sepals serve to protect the flower bud before it blooms, playing a critical role in the early development of the flower. They usually form the outermost whorl of the flower and are often green, resembling leaves.

When the flower is in bud form, sepals shield the developing petals and reproductive structures from environmental elements and potential damage. As the flower opens, sepals may remain attached and can sometimes be involved in attracting pollinators, although their primary function is protective.

In contrast, petals are the colorful parts of the flower that attract pollinators; stamens are the male reproductive organs that produce pollen; and the ovary is part of the female reproductive system that contains the ovules. Each of these structures plays a specific role in the flower’s reproductive process, but only the sepal is designated as the protective outer layer surrounding the bud.