Flower color and fragrance:
It’s all about the birds and the bees
| Flowers bring us gorgeous color and magnificent fragrance. But did you ever wonder why?
Beautiful petals and lovely smells are nature’s way of making sure that flowers keep on blooming – in other words, that they reproduce. Another natural treat we humans get to appreciate and enjoy.
Here’s how it works: Flower color and fragrance attract insects, like bees and butterflies, and birds, such as hummingbirds, to the blossoms. As the bee or bird consumes the plant’s nectar, some of the flower’s pollen rubs off on the visitor’s body.
Needing more food, the bird or bee flies away and finds another flower. The pollen from the previous plant is deposited on the new blossom, thus cross-pollinating the plants. The pollen from the stamen (a male reproductive part) is exposed to the pistil (a female part) in order to create a new seed.
Rich contrasts and subtle differences in shade and scent distinguish flower varieties and ensure that pollinators keep visiting. |
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For example, snapdragons are more fragrant during the day when bees are active. Conversely, stargazer lilies are fragrant at night because they are likely to be visited by moths. Also, flowers that bloom at night tend to be less colorful.
Flowers grown in warmer temperatures tend to have more intense fragrances than blooms from cooler climates. Generally speaking, the brighter the bloom and the stronger the scent, the more attention the flower will receive.
Whether you’re seeking outstanding colors, unforgettable scents, or a combination of the two, your Teleflora florist can help you select stunning floral arrangements and bouquets in beautiful keepsake vases.
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