Why Do Plants Create Flowers?

Pollination

Plants reproduce in different ways. Some grow from roots or tubers, others by spores, some by seed hidden in fruit, and others by seed created within the flower. Without flowers, many plants would vanish or become extinct.

Purpose

A flower's main purpose is to attract pollen carriers either by scent or by color. Without these carriers, pollen from the male part of the plant--the stamen--might not reach the female part of the plant--the pistil or carpel--and reproduction would not occur. Pollen carriers include flying insect such as bees and wasps, or a hummingbird, the wind or a gardener.

Certain types of plants such as the ficus tree attract only one particular wasp. The plant is dependant upon that wasp for pollinating its flowers. The wasp would die if the ficus flower ceased to exist.

Uses

Flowers of different plants are used to make perfume, others to make dye and some are considered a delicacy to eat, such as fried pumpkin blooms.

Fun Fact

According to graphicghana.com, the Stapelia smells like rotten meat and attracts flies instead of bees to pollinate the plant.

Benefits

Many insects depend upon pollen as a food source. Bees use pollen from flowers to make combs of honey that most people enjoy.

Considerations

Be mindful where you place prolific bloomers. Bees and wasps can be a nuisance near your favorite picnic spot or a danger if placed too near children's play areas.

References

• Reproduction and Pollination
• Why Do Plants Have Flowers
• Ficus Wasps