There may have been a shortage of nutritional resources in the carrot-like underground caudex of Othonna hederifolia to result in such a short peduncle for the normal-looking flowerhead.

Challenged plants of many species will produce flowers at lower level and early when conditions are tough. Delivering another generation takes precedence over other life achievements and gratifications, whatever the species.

Leaf midribs and lateral veins are sometimes prominent on these leaves, bulging and not only clear to observe (iNaturalist; http://www.llifle.com).