Which part of the flower is responsible for reproduction?

The pistil is the part of the flower that plays a crucial role in reproduction. It is the female reproductive structure, consisting of the ovary, style, and stigma. The ovary contains ovules, which are the female gametes. When pollen grains (male gametes) land on the stigma, they can germinate and grow down the style to reach the ovary, leading to fertilization. This process is essential for the formation of seeds and fruit, thereby ensuring the continuation of the plant species.

Other parts of the flower, such as the stamen, are involved in reproduction as they produce pollen which contains the male gametes. However, the stamen's role complements that of the pistil rather than being the primary site of reproductive activity. Sepals and petals primarily serve protective and attraction roles, respectively, but do not directly participate in the reproductive process. Thus, the pistil is specifically responsible for the crucial stages of reproduction in the flowering plant.