The liquid is probably produced by "nectaries" which are hidden deep inside the flower. The nectar attracts pollinators by providing them with a bit of carbohydrate.
Many flowers produce nectar.
Arnold
Apr 25, 2010 07:03:33 PM, pbs@lists.ibiblio.org wrote:
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Hi, all. I am wondering if any of you can talk to me about these wondrous cups of liquid inside the bell-shaped flowers of fritillaria. Are these unique to the imperialis varieties? A woman I'm profiling referred to them as "tears of mary." Have any of you ever heard this expression?
What is the liquid--is it nectar?
Any information totally appreciated.
Thanks---
Anne Marie//WSJ.