The following plants have self-pollinated flowers EXCEPT?

Analyze the question: We need the plant that is NOT normally self-pollinated. In other words, which one usually relies on cross-pollination?

Concept:

• Self-pollination is the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of the same flower or the same plant. It is common in flowers that are bisexual and often cleistogamous (the flower stays closed).
• Cross-pollination is the transfer of pollen between different plants of the same species, by insects, wind, etc. It is favoured by showy flowers, nectar, and separate maturation times of the male and female parts.

Going through the options:

• A. Groundnut: Self-pollinating. The flowers are mostly self-fertilised, often before the flower even opens.
• B. Okra: Okra flowers are large, showy, and bisexual. Although it can self-pollinate, it is often cross-pollinated by insects such as bees, with natural cross-pollination commonly reported at 4-20% or more. It is the one classed as often cross-pollinated.
• C. Rice: Strongly self-pollinating (over 95%), and the flowers are small and enclosed in glumes.
• D. Wheat: Strongly self-pollinating, and the florets are usually fertilised before opening.

Conclusion: Groundnut, rice and wheat are classic self-pollinators. Okra, with its large, showy flowers that attract insects, is the exception and is treated as an often-cross-pollinated crop.

Tip: Cereals (rice, wheat) and legumes (groundnut, beans) are self-pollinators, which is a common exam pattern. Plants with large, colourful flowers, like okra and hibiscus relatives, are more likely to be insect-pollinated. Maize is a typical cross-pollinated cereal, so watch out for it in other questions.