Impatiens Walleriana, gender fluid.

Jun 10

Impatiens Walleriana flowers are hermaphroditic when they open.

Pretty in pink.

The flower has five male anthers. Their filaments are fused towards the top and pollen is released at the apex. The female stigma, wrapped in the anther cap, is protected while it matures.

Anthers have released pollen and their duties are over. Time for the female side of the flower to take control and produce the next generation of seeds. Male organs can be dispensed with. They are pushed aside and drop off as the stigma with its stumpy style emerges. It takes about 24 hours for the necessary surgery.