Talk:Catkin

Discussion

The article lacks information, and so I researched the growth and development of the plant along with where the plant originates SamanthaNyeager (talk) 14:29, 4 May 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Photo inverted?

It seems to me that one of the photos illustrating this article - "Female flowering catkin on a willow" - is upside down. As presented both the catkin and leaf are growing vertically upwards, and I'm pretty sure willow leaves are always pendant/hanging, as are most catkins. Expert opinions please! Ian Page (talk) 18:37, 10 September 2014 (UTC)[reply]

In all the species I know (those found in Britain, either native or planted) the young catkins and leaves are upright. Long catkins on distinct stalks (peduncles) found in some species may turn sideways or even downwards as they mature and produce seeds, but those with short or stalkless catkins (like Salix caprea, the goat willow) always stay upright in my experience. It's worth pointing out that willow catkins are insect-pollinated, not wind-pollinated, so they don't need to dangle and move in the breeze to either release or catch pollen. So I think the photo is correct. Peter coxhead (talk) 19:09, 10 September 2014 (UTC)[reply]

OK, thanks! Ian Page (talk) 15:37, 11 September 2014 (UTC)[reply]