Day 241: Tofieldia glutinosa (Western False Asphodel) is a member of the lily family, the flower stalk rising above a tuft of iris-like leaves which can easily be mistaken for a grass on first glance. The upper portion of the stem is covered with minuscule sticky, reddish glands which assist in cross-pollination. As insects crawl on the plant, pollen adheres to traces of the glutinous substance gathered on their feet and wings, allowing transfer to another specimen. Tofieldia is a moisture-lover, and grows where mosquitoes and flies serve as pollinators. Bees aren't the only bugs doing the job!
Footnote: the taxonomists strike again. Tofieldia has been reclassified to the point of having an entirely new designation: Triantha occidentalis.
No comments:
Post a Comment