Flowers are not just pretty to look at and sweet to smell. They also serve a very important purpose to the life and future of the plants that they crown. The most common way flowers accomplish this feat is by attracting insects and birds to their petals, where the creatures pick up pollen and transfer it to other flowers. This process is known as "pollination" which is followed by "fertilization" which results in the formation and dispersal of the plant's seeds.
At Stephen F. Austin State University, you can walk through the Azalea Trail and the Mast Arboretum and see many varieties of flowers and plants for yourself. If this isn't possible, don't worry - you can still view many of these beautiful flowers by taking a Virtual Field Trip with TIDES. To the left, you will find links to different kinds of flowers and images that illustrate each cateogry. To the right, explore websites, videos, and databases which can give you more information and a better appreciation for the beauty and purpose of the life that surrounds us.
