Having the female and male reproductive organs separated in different floral structures on the same plant. Monoecy decreases the chances of self fertilization and is often associated with wind pollination, as in hazels (Corylus) and maize (Zea mays). The genetic control of sexual expression in monoecious plants is very complex and not clearly understood but it appears to involve combinations of genes that either promote or suppress the formation of male or female flowers. Compare hermaphrodite , dioecious. |
