In a particular flower, the largest petal overlaps the two lateral petals, which in turn overlap the two smallest anterior petals. Which of the following plants exhibits this type of aestivation?

Step-by-step solution

The given description refers to vexillary (or papilionaceous) aestivation, where the largest petal (standard) overlaps the two lateral petals (wings), which in turn overlap the two smallest anterior petals (keel). According to NCERT, this type of aestivation is found in pea and bean flowers. Cassia exhibits imbricate aestivation. Calotropis exhibits valvate aestivation. Cotton exhibits twisted aestivation. Answer: Bean