Pointy tips like an oriental shrine, the triangular bracts with brown lines down the centre act like flowers, early marketing of the beauty to come when the real flowers should open soon.

This Trachyandra inflorescence is performing the early revelation of its elaborate design as if nothing could be the matter when one’s main feature is scheduled on disturbed land next to a high-speed motorway where foul fumes interfere with serious artistic production.

Down below and out of sight, shiny broad leaves radiate on the ground around the proud stem; the backdrop to a fine performance. Professionals don’t get thrown by trivia.