BOTANICAL CHARACTERS 177 



The organs of reproduction consist of three stamens with 

 thread-like filaments, tipped with large anthers, and a pistil 

 with two feathery stigmas. The flowers open for only a 

 few hours; fertilization generally takes place before they 

 open. The oat is normally close-fertilized, though cross- 

 fertilization may possibly occur. 



Fig. 58. Oat spikelets in blossom. 



The seed varies in size, color, and shape according to the 

 variety, but is usually two or three times as long as broad, 

 tapering from a little above the base to the tip, and is fur- 

 rowed on the inner side. The flowering glume is often pro- 

 vided with a short, usually twisted awn, which is attached 

 to the back of the glume. This may fall off when the grain 

 ripens or be broken off in thrashing, or it may adhere to the 



