Seeds' pods and capsules are remarkable examples of beautiful, functional natural architecture. The two photographs below show what happens when seed pods of American willowherb Epilobium ciliatum are ripe. The pod splits longitudinally into four sections that gradually curl backways, dragging with them the hairy 'parachute' plumes of the rows of seeds, which eventually break free and are carried away on the wind.
Mouse-ear chickweed carries its seeds inside a translucent, flask-shaped capsule which has a ring of teeth around the opening. The teeth respond to changes in surrounding moisture, opening to release seeds when they dry out.
Cowslip seed capsules (below) also open via a ring of teeth that curl backwards in dry air. These capsules are still full of seeds which, after shedding, will usually remain dormant in the soil until spring, needing the low temperatures of winter to break their dormancy.
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