Ixia polystachya buds

The green buds of Ixia polystachya on this side-branch of the inflorescence are about ellipsoid. The bracts at the base are quite functional as a protective covering at this stage of developmental proceedings.

The smaller the bud, the bigger the part of it covered by the two bracts that do not keep up with bud elongation. Eventually the flower tube will extend its upper part right out of bract reach, presenting the corollas well above the flower base where the ovary resides under cover of the bracts.

Towards the top of the branch the youngest buds are still considerable smaller and brown-tipped, their time coming later than the lower ones (Manning, 2007; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; iNaturalist).