Connections (Dandelion Seedhead)
Many species of dandelions (Taraxacum) disperse their seeds by wind. After flowering is finished, the dandelion flower head dries out. The dried petals and stamens drop off, the bracts curve backwards, and the parachute ball opens into a full sphere. When development is complete, the mature seeds are attached to white, fluffy "parachutes" which easily detach from the seedhead and glide by wind, dispersing. This photo is a detail showing the bracts curving backwards. Some photo manipulation used to show the interconnections.
Connections (Dandelion Seedhead)
Many species of dandelions (Taraxacum) disperse their seeds by wind. After flowering is finished, the dandelion flower head dries out. The dried petals and stamens drop off, the bracts curve backwards, and the parachute ball opens into a full sphere. When development is complete, the mature seeds are attached to white, fluffy "parachutes" which easily detach from the seedhead and glide by wind, dispersing. This photo is a detail showing the bracts curving backwards. Some photo manipulation used to show the interconnections.