Question
Should the actual flower of this plant ever be removed? If so, when? Will removal impede or help future flower development?

Answer
Dale, when the flower turns brown and dries up is the time to remove it, unless for aesthetics, you want to remove during the transition to that stage; either way, you will not impede the process of future flowering. Letting dead heads remain on plant will impede flower however, along with the unsightly look it produces...Nick