Mesembryanthemum oculatum petal length differences

Inner, short petals of the Mesembryanthemum oculatum flower grade from the full-length ones to tiny and thread-like near the flower centre and then into staminodes around the stamens. Less than half the petals in picture are full length.

A faint pinkish hue is present on the flower in picture among the petals below their tips (Le Roux, et al, 2005; Smith, et al, 1998; Herre, 1971; iNaturalist).