Crossword Genius

Strangely spellbound while cutting buds producing allergen (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pollen

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'strangely spellbound while cutting' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both plants as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pollen that I've seen before include "Fine powder produced by the anthers of seed-bearing plants" , "Seed released by plant" , "Frequent cause of allergies" , "Cause of hay fever" , "Powdery substance given off by flowers" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
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