by 
The Curious Bag
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A bract is a part of some flowering plant that serves a specific function. In many types of flowers, the bracts are more attractive and colorful than the flower itself, a key point when it comes to pollination.
Function
In flowering plants with bracts, the main function of the bract is to attract birds, bees and other insects that will pollinate the flower. Although bracts typically occur on plants with nondescript flowers, sometimes the bract resembles a green leaf.
Evolution
The poinsettia commonly seen at Christmas is an excellent example of a plant with bracts. As the poinsetta evolved, these brightly colored bracts took the place of the petals and attracted pollinating creatures.
Protection
The bracts of the stinking passion flower, which grows in Hawaii, South America and Southeast Asia, protect the flowers and the fruit of the plant from anything eating or injuring these reproductive parts.
Digestion
The bracts of the passion flower also have the ability to secrete a sticky substance that can trap and digest insects. The plant absorbs amino acids by this process, giving the bracts yet another function
Insulation
According to the Ask nature.org website, the furry bracts of a plant called the Lobelia telekii, a plant of the alpine areas of African mountains such as Mount Kenya, serve as insulation. One function of the bracts is to protect the plant from cold and wind.
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