
Certain plants can generate heat through a process known as thermogenesis.
Species including some arums and lotuses can maintain parts of their flowers at temperatures noticeably above the surrounding air. Heat can help spread scent molecules and may contribute to interactions with pollinating insects.
The process uses stored chemical energy rather than sunlight directly heating the flower.
Plants are usually associated with absorbing warmth from their environment, but a few can actively produce their own.
© Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew