Magnolia

Gardens are sensorial rewards. Touch, smell, feel, sight and sound can get anyone engaged. But while you can’t access your favorite sanctuaries, maybe reading about the flora and fauna that make them so rewarding, could still keep you engaged.

In our little effort to bring you even more closer and connected to London Town's gardens, during these times, I am adding a new Botany section on Wednesday mornings. Stay engaged!

Companions of the flora: Companions are at times necessary for survival for some flowers or they can be a nuisance when they help just a little bit too much. Example 1: Let's look at Magnolias for example: Magnolias have been around for 90+ million years. They evolved before the bees did. One of the best pollinator companion for Magnolias is its beloved clumsy beetle.

Magnolias

Beetles evolved far before the Magnolias did. The Magnolia flowers are large, making them easily accessible for the beetles. What's in the Magnolias for the Beetles? Pollen! They visit the flower for eating the pollen, as there is no nectar. But sometimes they end up helping just a little too much when they eat up the petals as food along with the pollen. Ever noticed how thick the petals of Magnolias are? Well, it is an evolutionary trait probably evolved to make the petals not be so chewable for their otherwise compatible companions.