Shooting Star is a photograph by Robert Bales which was uploaded on March 11th, 2013.
Shooting Star
Dodecatheon is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Primulaceae. The species have basal clumps of leaves and nodding flowers that are... more
by Robert Bales
Title
Shooting Star
Artist
Robert Bales
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
Dodecatheon is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the family Primulaceae. The species have basal clumps of leaves and nodding flowers that are produced at the top of tall stems rising from where the leaves join the crown. The genus is largely confined to North America and part of northeastern Siberia. Common names include shooting star, American cowslip, mosquito bills, mad violets, and sailor caps. A few species are grown in gardens for their showy and unique flower display.
The stamens are thrust out with the sepals bent back. The flowers are pollinated by bees, which grab hold of the petals, and gather pollen by vibrating the flowers by buzzing their wings (buzz pollination). The vibration releases pollen from the anthers.
This is one of the most beautiful spring wildflowers in the prairie. A colony of these plants in bloom is a sight not to be missed. The flowers of Shooting Star resemble in form those of Horse Nettle (Solanum carolinense) and other members of the Nightshade family. This is an example of convergent evolution between plants of different families because of similarities in the method of pollination. Early pioneers called this plant 'Prairie Pointers.'
Uploaded
March 11th, 2013
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Comments (5)
Linda Phelps
L. Very nice composition with marvelous colors. The strong violet color pops tight out of the frame. I have never seen one of these wildflowers. It was a treat to see it and read your descriprion.
Robert Bales replied:
They are common in the Northwest early in the Spring!! Thanks for the great review and LIKE!!
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