Calobota cytisoides bud progress

The physical development of Calobota cytisoides buds to flowers is demonstrated (or illustrated?) by the four performers acting on this stem-tip stage. The youngest bud is as always at the top, the open flower with most life experience in the lowest position on the raceme.

The calyx undergoes minimal change during this part of floral development. It performs the role of the strong, stable protector, holding petals securely in place and, more importantly, safely covering the ovary where the main mission of seed production is under way.

The petals grow in the buds by firstly pushing forward in furled, cylindrical shape and simultaneously assuming yellow colouring. When full petal length is achieved, the banner lifts from the wings, while the wings continue to conceal the two, joined keel petals (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; iNaturalist; Wikipedia).