Dianthus

 Cheerful and colorful from late spring well into the summer, dianthus are perfect examples of radial symmetry. Petals spread outward from each center. Colors form in symmetrical rings. And yet, on this one little plant, there are so many variations within the finely-drawn lines of the petals: short dashes on some, long arterial veins on others and nearly filled-in tracings on the brightest blooms. Each flower sports a zigzaggy white edge, some forming only the thinnest most delicate line of white. How marvelous to see symmetry and variety working in harmony.