DENDROLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -a. Female cones produce pollen that fertilizes the egg.

Detailed explanation-2: -The female pine cone, or megastrobilus, produces the ovule, or unfertilized seed. Scales (modified leaves) on the female cone open to receive pollen, then close. Fertilization takes place late the following spring.

Detailed explanation-3: -The woody cone is the female cone, which produces seeds. The male cone, which produces pollen, is usually herbaceous and much less conspicuous even at full maturity.

Detailed explanation-4: -Key Points. Male cones give rise to microspores, which produce pollen grains, while female cones give rise to megaspores, which produce ovules.