The monotypic Orothamnus (only species O. zeyheri) is different in that the seed (technically a fruit classified as an achene) maturity and release happen quickly so the seed heads should be picked a few hours before seed drop. This is indicated by the floret bracts first becoming semi-transparent and browning/whitening as the red colour fades. (Figure 5) The bracts then reflex backwards within an hour or so and the seeds drop out with their parachute. They can be bagged easily as the floret hangs downwards, however a rain-soaked bag in a strong wind can get too heavy. It is easier to use a small rubber band to close the floret as the reflexing backward is not strong enough to overpower the rubber band. Orothamnus whilst flowering will have another flower bud developing immediately behind the first with another just starting behind the second, so bagging can be a problem then. These smaller seeds as well as the M. capitulates and M. hirtus also have an elaiosome but have a fragile inner coat that can be easily crushed with rough handling. They need the seed coat to be soaked for about 12 hours and then the elaiosome rubbed off with fingers, dried and then gently rubbed between two pieces of extra fine sandpaper (300-600 grit), the lower piece in a shallow depression. This rubbing to remove the fine oxygen impervious layer. Rubbing the individual seed will invariably crush them, rather rub a batch of ten or more at a time.