Melianthus

These slightly hardy to frost-tender perennials and shrubs are native to South Africa. They are mainly grown for the beauty of their foliage. M. major (Honeybush) is a large, evergreen shrub that grows from 6 to 10 feet high, or up to 4 feet high in cool climates. It has a spread from 6 to 10 feet. The evergreen or deciduous, glaucous blue leaves grow up to 18 inches long and are divided into 7 to 13, toothed, oval leaflets. The small, tubular, brownish-red flowers are produced in foot-long, terminal spikes, in the summer.

Pot Cultivation

Honeybushes (also Honeyflower) can be grown outdoors in mild climates only; otherwise, they may be grown in containers indoors. They should be planted in fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun. Mulch in the winter and cut back the top growth in the spring. When they are grown indoors, they should be planted in three parts fibrous loam, one part leaf mold and one part sand.

Propagation

Seeds may be sown in the spring, or semi-ripe cuttings may be taken in the summer.

M. minor

VARIETIES :

• M. major;
• M. minor.