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Crimson Starflower

Flower type: Biennial (Stores water in the thickened base of its stem)

This average-sized flower grows up to 7 inches (18 cm) tall. Its red and light grey stems grow in bunches of 6 and are very thin with a curved tip, and the tiny, red or cream leaves are finger-like with smooth edges. The leaves alternate on the stem.

6 to 12 medium-sized flowers grow on alternate sides up the length of the stem. The flowers are 3 cm (1.2 inches) wide, with solid crimson petals decorated with indigo dots and a crimson central disk. The flower head is shaped like a star made up of 12 tightly layered, narrow petals. They detach easily.

It has a fairly strong scent that smells like onion, and it has very little pollen. It is pollinated by a small species of bird, but is also visited by a small species of bird.

It is suitable for creating strong, durable textiles
It can flourish even in standing water.
It usually houses a colony of beneficial insects.