False colour scanning electron micrograph of farina glands on the surface of a sepal (calyx) of the primula flower,Primula malacoides,native to China. The plant is noted for the covering of stalked glands,which secrete a floury white substance called farina. These cover the flowering stalk,buds,petals & sepals . The waxy secretion is a water repellant,protecting the flower from condensation of moisture & cold temperatures. The sepals form the tough outer whorl of the flower,surrounding the more delicate petals,or corolla. Visible in the sepal's surface are open stomata (breathing pores),which regulate the flow of air to the plant. Magnification: X213 at 5x7cm size. Original is bw print b765/030 |