Flowers come in so many sizes and colours and are found all over the world. They brighten up any room and bring joy to everyone. But have you ever wondered what the smallest flower on Earth is? We discussed the largest flower in a past blog so it’s time to explore the smallest flower on Earth.
Smallest Flower on Earth
Recognized as the smallest flower on earth the Wolffia, sometimes called Duckweed, is also the smallest plant that produces a fruit. This plant was first recorded in New Zealand by Ruth Mason. The plant grows in freshwater or marshes and the species is worldwide, which consists of 9-11 species.
Where do they grow?
The Wolffia is an aquatic plant and tends to resemble specks of cornmeal floating on the water. Since the plant has no roots, they can easily float on the surface of the water. The flower is produced in a depression on the top surface of the plant body and it has one stamen and one pistil. They often float together in pairs or form floating mats with other related plants such as the Lemna and Spirodela species.
A source of proteinĀ
While it’s defiantly not a flower you would have in a vase, itās still very interesting. And itās actually a good source of protein. Thereās an organization called the International Lemna Association (ILA) and they are promoting the plant as something that could help the planet. Since it’s a high source of protein, it could be an alternative source for human consumption. In fact, in some places in Asia it is used as a food source for many yearsĀ
Small but fascinatingĀ
This plant might be small but it’s fascinating and we can learn a lot from the tiny flower. At Brant Florist we love learning about different plants and flowers and we hope you do as well. Make sure you view our selection of flowers or come by and visit us soon.Ā