Anthesis

Anthesis is the period during which a flower is fully open and functional.

In Banksia species, for example, anthesis involves the extension of the style far beyond the upper perianth parts.

Anthesis of flowers is sequential within an inflorescence, so when the style and perianth are different colours, the result is a striking colour change that gradually sweeps along the inflorescence.

Flowers with nocturnal anthesis generally are white or less colorful, and as such, they contrast more strongly with the night.

These flowers typically attract nocturnal insects including many moth species.