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Schizocarp
The term Schizocarp
means "split fruit" and signifies a multilocular
gynoecium that splits into individual units upon maturation. The number of units is equal
to the number of Carpels. The unitary fruits are usually Achenes.
A Familiar Example is Stemmadenia littoralis (lecheso). You may not remember its name but you will probably not forget that its fruit is a Schizocarp!!!!!!
The Apaiaceae was formerly known as the Umbelliferae because its flowers were typically organized into Umbels. Many species in this family produce schizocarps which are well known as spices. These include Fennel, Caraway, Anise & Coriander. Their fruits contain Secretory Cavities that hold volatile oils which provide their characteristic aromas.
 Inflorescence of Dacus carota (Queen Anne's Lace) a salutary member of the Apiaceae |
 Another member of this family with the typical Inflorescence (Umbel) |
This composite diagram
shows features of the Apiaceae; A Mature Inflorescence with Fruits As the fruit dries and matures the two carpels split but remain attached to the receptacle. Each mature Carpal is an Achene. The Secretory Cavities are indicated by the dark ellipses in the cross-sectional diagrams of the Gynoecium. |
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 Nearly mature Gynoecia: Note the two Stigmas which indicate that the Gynoecium contains two Carpels. |
 Mature Schizocarps of an Apiaceae: These clearly show the bicarpellate nature of the Gynoecium! |
 Separated Carpels of Oxytropis sp.  |
 Cross Section through the Gynoecium of a representative Apiaceae: Note the Two Carpels and the many Secretory Cavities.  |
