As a gardener, it is important to learn about the anatomy of your plants in order to have a successful garden. Flowering is the most successful plant reproductive strategy in nature, and it leads to healthy and beautiful plants that will continue to thrive. Learning the anatomy of a flower will help you get a better understanding for how the plant reproductive process works and what to look for when your plants begin to flower.
Some flowers are designated as “female,” while others are seen as “male,” depending on the qualities of the plant. There are some plants, however, that have both male and female parts, and these are known as “perfect flowers” that produce fruit. The gynoecium, or female part, is made up of the following:
- Pistil – The collective term for female floral parts
- Stigma – The surface on which pollen is deposited
- Style – A tube-like structure that carries pollen to the ovary
- Ovary – Contains ovules for reproduction; A mature ovary is a fruit
- Ovule – Contains egg cells and produces seeds
The androecium, or male part, contains the following:
- Stamen – The collective term for male floral parts
- Anther – Contains pollen that produce male reproductive cells
- Filament – Bears and supports anthers
- Pollen – Male gametophyte of seed plants
Reproduction in flowering plants occurs through the process of pollination, when male gametes are transferred to female ovules. With this information in hand, you will be able to find plants that you want to add to your garden that can help you create a beautiful landscape around your home and yard.
