Melianthus major young inflorescence

During the early Melianthus major bud stage paler colours prevail than on the eventual open flowers.

Shine on the mainly coppery red outer sepals is not matched by the dull pinkish peduncle, sturdy and curved down. It will eventually be strong enough to keep the open flower raceme erect and widely noticeable for the benefit of pollinators.

The outer sepals form straight rows over the flowers to be, the early inflorescence still upside down and only a fraction of its mature length (Manning, 2007; Leistner, (Ed.), 2000; iNaturalist).