Wallaby Orange Blaze; Bracteantha bracteata - Photo Essay

My Wallaby Orange Blaze has finally bloomed and it is so interesting to watch as it goes from bud to flower.  This is another flower in my garden that closes up tight when the sun goes down. 

This photo shows some buds, some partial blooms and a full bloom.  The buds are very tight and brown color.  The next stage of the bloom shows a little crown center and the first layer of petals opens.  The petals are yellow near the center of the flower and orange on the tips.  The third stage of bloom shows the crown which becomes more like a pill box hat of yellow and many layers of petals which remain bright yellow toward the center and bright orange on the tips.

Far left bottom are two buds.

Center top would be a first stage bloom.

Right side is a second stage bloom.  The center is pretty tight and looks just like a crown.  The picture doesn't do it justice.

Center of plant shows a full bloom.

This photo shows the crown effect a little better in the flower on the top right.

Another name for this lovely flower is Outback Paper Daisy.  They do remind me of a flower made from heavy paper or corn husk.  They need full sun, grow to 10 or 12 inches and are excellent for borders and patio pots.  These plants are annuals.