Macrophotograph of the flower of the garden pea, Pisum sativum, showing a bud about to open (top), fully open flower (left) & older flower with developing seed pod (right). The petals are colourless, appearing white because of the reflection of light. The veins are green due to the presence of chloroplasts (photosynthesis) in these regions. The flower is a classic insect- pollinated shape, although today, as a result of domestication, pea plants are self pollinated & do not need the services of insects. This is a case of the retention of ancestral traits in the shape of the flower, despite the change in function. Mag: X 0.6 (35mm).