Inflorescence architecture strongly influences reproductive success in angiosperms by affecting pollination efficiency, seed production, and other agronomic traits. The diversity of inflorescence forms reflects long-term evolutionary adaptation to ecological conditions, pollination strategies, and resource allocation. Developmental studies indicate that inflorescence formation is governed by hierarchical changes in meristem identity through coordinated maintenance, proliferation, and termination of stem cell populations. Although major regulatory pathways have been identified, an integrated framework linking stem cell dynamics, branching architecture, environmental responsiveness, and evolutionary diversification remains lacking.

Recent studies have substantially improved understanding of the molecular networks controlling inflorescence development. Conserved stem cell regulatory systems, particularly the WUSCHEL–CLAVATA feedback loop and KNOX-mediated pathways, are central to maintaining meristem activity and branching potential. Meristem identity genes, including TFL1, LFY, and AP1, regulate the balance between indeterminacy and floral commitment. Hormonal signaling, especially interactions between auxin and cytokinin, provides positional information for branch initiation and organ differentiation. Comparative studies have identified lineage-specific regulatory modules, revealing both the conservation and diversification of developmental mechanisms.

Current knowledge remains constrained by an overreliance on a limited number of model species, restricting broader evolutionary interpretation. In addition, regulatory pathways are often investigated independently despite extensive interactions among stem cell regulation, hormone signaling, and environmental responses. These limitations underscore the need for more integrative approaches linking developmental genetics, comparative morphology, and evolutionary biology.

Future research integrating comparative evo-devo approaches with emerging technologies is expected to clarify how evolutionary changes in developmental regulatory networks shape inflorescence diversity across angiosperms, while providing a theoretical foundation for crop architectural improvement.