Pollen–pistil interaction

Pollen grains of other species are incompatible and do not germinate on the stigma. Pollen grains of the same species germinate to produce pollen tubes, and more than one may grow; only one pollen tube penetrates through the style to reach the embryo sac to release male gametes.

In a solid style, the pollen tube grows through a transmitting tissue, separating its cells by secreting pectinase.
In a hollow style, the pollen tube travels along the lining of the stylar canal.