Female flower of the European larch, Larix decidua, which is a wind pollinated gymnosperm. Pollination by wind is a simple but random process. Wind pollinated plants produce enormous amounts of pollen, most of which is lost. The female flowers of this larch appear erect from the sides of branches; to be in a prominent position for receiving pollen. The male flowers are found on the undersides of branches & in great numbers to produce the vast amount of pollen neccesary for pollination. The pollen falls between the scales of the female flowers & effects fertilisation of the ovules directly. Pollen is visible on these flowers.