Flowering is definitely the most successful plant reproductive strategy and has opened up nearly every habitat on Earth for colonisation. Usually brought on by a change in temperature or daylight, flowering is the reproductive stage of a plant's life cycle. Flowers are designed to encourage the transfer of male pollen to female ovule, and the subsequent production of seed-bearing fruit. A remarkable variety of methods is used to attract insects, birds and even bats: from nutritious nectar to bright colours and scents - not all of which are pleasant. Less showy flowers are serviced by the wind.

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