Why do flowers smell?

Scents take a lot of effort to make, but they ensure the next generation

The role of scent This lily has been picked apart to show the different structures that ensure pollination Flowers have just one biological role: to guarantee pollination. Many blooms are pollinated by insects, attracted by a flower’s bright colours and the reward of energy-rich pollen or nectar. But flowers must also lure insects from much farther afield – enter, scent. The aroma of some flowers contains up to 100 different chemicals. These are modified from chemicals in leaves which deter grazing animals, but are manufactured within the flower. Warm weather stimulates their release – just when bugs are most active Characteristic scents encourage insects to visit other flowers of the same species and so transfer pollen between them. The blooms of evening primrose and night-scented stock release their sweet aroma in the evening, attracting…

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How It Works Book of Incredible Earth (Digital) - 1 Issue, How It Works Book Of Incredible Earth 6th Edition

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