Question: There is a very small flower growing at the edge of our sidewalk in Kelowna BC. Google search says its …
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Question
There is a very small flower growing at the edge of our sidewalk in Kelowna BC. Google search says its likely stork's-bill. Any idea what the small pattern that appears on 2 of every 5 petals- Its advantage or use?
Answer
Dear gordonplant, good morning. I believe you are correct, this appears to be a member of the Geraniaceae. The patterns that you see at the base of each petal have a function often in directing pollinators to the reward (or directing them to the correct portion of the flower for proper pollination). In some species, these spots, stripes, patterns, and hairs can be the location of nectaries, in other cases they are nectar guides or other coloration that helps the flower better position the pollinators. I hope this is useful. Best wishes.
