Mmastodon ScienceBiology first seen 2 d ago, last 1 d ago, peak #2

Why the cucumber magnolia blooms yellow

Original: Magnolia acuminata is the only North American native deciduous magnolia species that naturally carries yellow pigments i

Magnolia acuminata, the cucumber magnolia, is described as the only deciduous magnolia native to North America that naturally produces yellow pigments in its blossoms. Botany enthusiasts are also highlighting that magnolias evolved before bees, so their flowers are structurally adapted for pollination by beetles rather than by more modern pollinators.

Why now: The unusual combination of yellow pigment and beetle pollination makes this tree a striking example of magnolias' ancient evolutionary history, and it is blooming season.

Magnolia acuminataNorth America

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• Magnolia acuminata is the only North American native deciduous magnolia species that naturally carries yellow pigments in its blossoms. Because magnolias evolved before bees, their flowers are anatomically structured for pollination by beetles. # flowers # biology # plants #… · tangledwing@ohai.social · 4

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