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RitaPoole56 t1_iwvlrlv wrote

It’s weird that Maine is the only state who’s “flower” is NOT a flower. (It’s a gymnosperm for you science geeks)

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Munrowo t1_iww3lph wrote

is the pinecone(?) like the coniferous version of a flower?

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Dudezmcgee t1_iwwvwno wrote

More like a seed, gymnosperm skip the whole flower part and let the wind do all the work instead of relying on pollinators.

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marrymejojo t1_iwxltx5 wrote

But they must still have a "flower" like structure for the pollin to land on. Even if it's like not an obvious thing.

It has me thinking, if we did have a state flower what would it be?

My vote is stinking Benjamin.

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Dudezmcgee t1_iwxubqy wrote

It has a zygote, or egg under the scales, yes. But it doesn't have an ovary like flowers do, which is what defines them. It also does not contain a stamen, or sperm producing organ like a flower. Instead, gymnosperm alternate between pollinating and being pollinated (to avoid self-pollination).

And I think the stinking benjamin would be a wonderful idea for a state plant! Though I admit I had to look that up cause I'd only heard them called "waking robins" before lol

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el_gran_gato_montes t1_iwyy7fi wrote

I think it’s technically the pine cone AND tassel. Don’t think that makes it better though.

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