Monsonia crassicaulis coloured sepals

Before a Monsonia crassicaulis flower is fully open the sturdy sepals that up to now covered the more delicate corolla during the bud stage, appear as long as the petals, though not as white.

In the open flower the calyx recedes to a less conspicuous role. Once a rigid shield serving a purpose, it is now reduced, a pointless has-been though pointed. It is comprehensively outshone by the gossamer thin petals above.

Regally welcoming pollinators during its prime, the corolla in turn also enjoys but a small window period of maximum attraction. Such is the life of royalty that serves and passes on when the time comes.