Dictionary Definition

spathe n : a conspicuous bract surrounding or subtending a spadix or other inflorescence

User Contributed Dictionary

From spatha, from Ancient Greek σπάθη (spathê) "blade".

In the context of "botany": A large bract that envelops or subtends an inflorescence, especially a spadix.

Spathe may refer to:

A hood-like bract, found along with a spadix, of inflorescences on plants in the arum family (Araceae)
A leaf-like bract subtending an inflorescence in various genera in the dayflower family (Commelinaceae)