Comparison of a Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) flower photographed in visible light (top), ultraviolet (middle), and infrared (bottom).
In visible light the flower is a uniform white colour.
In ultraviolet light a darker area around the mouth of the flower is visible. This may act as a nectar guide, aiding bees (which can see ultraviolet light) to the area of the flower where the nectar and pollen are located.
In infrared light the flower appears a single tone. The leaf of the plant appears brighter in infrared, having around the same brightness as the flower.
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