Why are flowers that bloom at night white or light in colour as compared to flowers that bloom during the day?

Night-blooming flowers are usually white or light-coloured because their pollinators, such as moths and some bats, are active at night when light is limited. White and pale-coloured flowers reflect the available dim light better, making them easier for nocturnal pollinators, especially moths, to locate. Many of these flowers also produce a strong fragrance and nectar to attract pollinators from a distance.

In contrast, flowers that bloom during the day are often brightly coloured because daytime pollinators such as bees and butterflies can recognise colours in sunlight. Bright colours help attract these pollinators and increase the chances of pollination. Thus, the colour, fragrance and blooming time of flowers are closely related to the type of pollinators they attract.