It begins soon after heading. The anthers of the terminal spikelet are first to come out, others follows. Anthesis occurs 25 days after PI, irrespective of the variety. At this stage the panicle is erect in shape.Pollination / fertilization: Rice is highly self pollinated. The florets open from morning to afternoon depending upon variety and weather. The stamens elongate and anthers move out of the glumes as the pollen is shed. The pollens' are received by the pistil and move to the ovary via pollen tubes.