Molecular biology techniques have considerably improved our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the control of flower initiation, development, function, and senescence. These processes are extremely important for managing the yield of agricultural crops. The essays in this volume discuss the molecular and genetic control of flower morphogenesis in particular species as well as the role and regulation of gene expression in the development of the male and female gametes in plant reproduction. They also review the considerable variation in the longevity and pattern of senescence of flowers. The book will be of particular interest to those botanists researching floral physiology.