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    Home » Primary Science » Key Stage 1 Science » Plants » Magic Opening Flowers

    Magic Opening Flowers

    September 16, 2021 By Emma Vanstone Leave a Comment

    Magic opening flowers are a brilliant super simple science investigation using just paper and water. The folded paper flowers open up as the paper absorbs the water. They are a great way to learn about capillary action and transport of water in plants too.

    You can make these as simple or creative as you like. Try experimenting with different flower shapes, types of paper and size of flowers. This investigation is great preschoolers who will love to watch the flowers open to reveal a drawing inside. Older children can use it as part of a plant science unit or use it to practice correct experimental procedures.

    If you like this activity you’ll love my other paper science experiments!

    Image of a paper flower sat in a tray of water for a capillary action science experiment

    You’ll need

    Tray

    Water

    Paper – sugar paper works best

    Other types of paper to experiment with

    Scissors

    Waterproof pens – optional

    Magic opening flowers instructions

    Half fill the tray with water.

    Cut out several different shaped flowers from different types of paper.

    Fold the petals up.

    Draw a little image inside – optional

    Set up for an opening paper flower experiment. A tray of water with paper flowers at the side.

    Carefully place the flowers on the water and watch as they open up.

    If you don’t want to cut out your own flowers, try my template.

    Image of a template for an opening flower experiment

    Make it an investigation

    Place flowers made with different types of paper onto the surface of the water at the same time. Record how long each take to open up.

    Remember to make this a fair test the flowers must be the same size and placed in the water at the same time.

    orange paper flower in a tray of water for a capillary action science experiment
    paper flowers set up for a science experiment to learn about capillary action

    More Science for Kids

    Mombrite has a great capillary action experiment using celery.

    Make slushy drinks, ice excavations, create a mini water cycle and lots more water science experiments.

    I also have an exciting collection of magic science tricks you might like too!

    Collage of magic opening flowers made from paper. the flowers are sat in a tray of water

    Last Updated on August 11, 2022 by Emma Vanstone

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    Safety Notice

    Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

    These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

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