During the pistillate phase most species in sect. Pachyneurium produce nectar droplets on the stigmas. Some species, such as A. concolor , may also produce droplets of nectar on the tepals as well. Thus, the available fresh pollen is commonly scattered over one-third or more of the spadix. When the stamens first emerge, the anther is frequently slightly exserted on a fleshy, thickened filament and is frequently colored.
Anthers usually open promptly after emerging from beneath the tepals.
Most frequently the pollen color is yellow, orange, or purplish, but is often white. The retraction is caused by the loss of water in the thin filaments and the resulting shrinkage. The fact that pollen has faded in color does not necessarily mean that it is not viable, but fresh pollen is most effective in pollination. In fact, it is common practice for plant breeders to manipulate the spadix of a single inflorescence to attempt self-pollination when no other pollen is available. While not always successful, this method will sometimes work on some species.