self-pollinate

verb

self-pol·​li·​nate ˌself-ˈpä-lə-ˌnāt 

self-pollinated; self-pollinating; self-pollinates

transitive verb

: self sense 2

intransitive verb

: to undergo self-pollination

Examples of self-pollinate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This self-pollinating fig tree can thrive in a variety of climates and can withstand temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 17 Apr. 2026

Some flowering annuals like scaevola may self-pollinate in mid-season and produce seedheads instead of blooms. —Teresa Woodard, Midwest Living, 14 Apr. 2026

While some plants can self-pollinate, this isn't the case for all. —Heather Bien, Southern Living, 8 Apr. 2026

Although All-In-One almond trees can self-pollinate, having bees around will produce a larger crop. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2026

Although eggplants are self-pollinating crops, studies have found that eggplants produce larger fruit when they’re pollinated by insects. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for self-pollinate

• abbreviate
• accelerate
• accommodate
• accumulate
• acuminate
• adjudicate
• adulterate
• affiliate
• agglomerate
• agglutinate
• alleviate
• amalgamate