Broom (Cytisus scoparius) flower after it has 'exploded'
Broom (Cytisus scoparius) flower after it has 'exploded', the result of an insect landing on its petals, showing coiled stamens and stigma. Flower about 25 mm tall.
When an insect lands on the 'wings' (the two petals above the keel) of the flower, these are unable to support its weight, so the insect hits the keel. This causes the floral parts to explode out of the keel, as shown in this image.
The result is that five long stamens brush the upperside of the insect and five short stamens brush its underside. The stigma encircles the insect, thus collecting pollen.
It is likely that Broom is self incompatible (i.e. a flower cannot be fertilised by its own pollen). (See the previous image. showing floral parts of Broom closed).
Image by John Bebbington FRPS
Broom (Cytisus scoparius) flower after it has 'exploded'
Broom (Cytisus scoparius) flower after it has 'exploded', the result of an insect landing on its petals, showing coiled stamens and stigma. Flower about 25 mm tall.
When an insect lands on the 'wings' (the two petals above the keel) of the flower, these are unable to support its weight, so the insect hits the keel. This causes the floral parts to explode out of the keel, as shown in this image.
The result is that five long stamens brush the upperside of the insect and five short stamens brush its underside. The stigma encircles the insect, thus collecting pollen.
It is likely that Broom is self incompatible (i.e. a flower cannot be fertilised by its own pollen). (See the previous image. showing floral parts of Broom closed).
Image by John Bebbington FRPS