Do the Petals on Flowers Undergo Photosynthesis?
Flowers generally have the reproductive parts of plants. They contain the male reproductive part, known as stamen, which produces pollen. Pollen spreads and fertilizes the female reproductive part, which is known as pistil or carpal.
Common Photosynthetic Parts
Plants generally conduct photosynthesis in the leaves. Chlorophyll in the leaves absorbs some light wavelengths and reflects the green wavelengths, making them appear green. Chloroplasts in the leaves use the trapped light energy to conduct the chemical processes of photosynthesis.
Photosynthetic Flowers
Some petals of green flowers can conduct photosynthesis, producing energy and carbon for the plant. This photosynthetic process contributes more energy if other organs that remain after flowering are green -- for example, green carpels.
- Flowers generally have the reproductive parts of plants.
- Chlorophyll in the leaves absorbs some light wavelengths and reflects the green wavelengths, making them appear green.
Significance
Photosynthesis in flowers can make significant contributions to the growth of the plant. In some plants, the reproductive structures can produce half of the carbon requirements.
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Writer Bio
Edriaan Koening began writing professionally in 2005, while studying toward her Bachelor of Arts in media and communications at the University of Melbourne. She has since written for several magazines and websites. Koening also holds a Master of Commerce in funds management and accounting from the University of New South Wales.
