Which part of the flower receives pollen during pollination?

The stigma is the part of the flower that receives pollen during the process of pollination. It is located at the top of the pistil and is often sticky, which helps to capture and hold onto pollen grains that are transferred from the anther of a flower, typically by pollinators such as bees or through the wind. Once pollen lands on the stigma, it can germinate and grow down the style to reach the ovary, where fertilization occurs. This plays a crucial role in the reproductive cycle of flowering plants, allowing them to produce seeds and, subsequently, new plants.

The other parts mentioned, such as the petals, serve primarily to attract pollinators and do not participate directly in the reception of pollen. The ovary, while critical for fertilization and seed development after pollination has occurred, does not receive pollen itself. The stem of the flower supports the reproductive structures and does not have a role in the pollination process.