Characteristic

Self-Pollination

Cross-Pollination

Process

Pollen from a flower’s anther lands on the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant.

Pollen is transferred from the anther of a flower on one plant to the stigma of a flower on a different plant of the same species.

Genetic Variation

Results in minimal or no genetic variation, leading to less genetic diversity within the plant.

Leads to high genetic variation, promoting diversity and adaptation in the plant.

Pollinators

Does not usually require pollinators, as the pollen transfer happens within the same plant.

Pollinators, such as insects, birds, or wind, are often required to transfer the pollen between plants.

Examples

Common self-pollinating plants include peas, wheat, and peanuts.

Apples, daffodils, and maize are examples of cross-pollinating plants.