Crinum macowanii inside the flower

The sweet scent of the Crinum macowanii flowers is particularly noticeable in the evening. This, combined with the flower colour, suggests moth pollinators. A Kenyan study found Convolvulus hawkmoths feeding on the flowers.

The black anthers of the C. macowanii stamens, crescent-shaped in the photo, are presented close to the dark pink stigma. The anthers contrasting against the pale interior of the corolla are bound to be noticed… in daytime. At night the moths would, however, very easily bump into them unsuspectingly and allow pollen offloads (Manning, 2009; iSpot; www.plantzafrica.com).