Answer:
The white deadnettle (Lamium album) and the red deadnettle (Lamium purpureum) are two closely related plant species belonging to the same genus Lamium. Although they have similar names, they have different physical characteristics and are considered distinct species.
While it is possible for these two species to cross-pollinate, it is unlikely to occur successfully. This is because they have different flower structures and pollination mechanisms. For instance, Lamium album has white flowers and is pollinated by bees, while Lamium purpureum has pink to purple flowers and is pollinated by both bees and butterflies.
Furthermore, successful cross-pollination between two plant species often requires a close genetic relationship between them. Although the two species belong to the same genus, they are still considered distinct species with different genetic makeup. Therefore, the likelihood of successful cross-pollination between Lamium album and Lamium purpureum is relatively low.
In conclusion, while it is possible for the white deadnettle and the red deadnettle to cross-pollinate, it is unlikely to occur successfully due to their different flower structures, pollination mechanisms, and genetic makeup.