A pendulous inflorescence modified for wind pollination. It is a loose * spike made up of numerous sessile usually unisexual flowers. The calyx and corolla are normally reduced or absent to allow maximum air circulation around the flower and the catkin itself develops in an exposed position on the plant. Male catkins shed vast amounts of light dry pollen. Female catkins usually have long hairy styles and stigmas to enhance pollen interception. Catkins are formed by many tree species, e.g. the male flowers of the Betulaceae (birches, hazels, alders, hornbeams) are always aggregated into catkins. See anemophily . |
