Gallery image of seed detail by and with permission from Plantaholic Sheila on Flickr, Main photo of flowers and foliage by and with permission from FarOutFlora on Flickr, Gallery detail image of leaf by and with permission from Lotus Johnson on Flickr Gallery image of shrub foliage by and with permission of Leonora (Ellie) Enking on Flickr
£12.99
Pot Size:
3Ltr
|20 In stock
Family Melianthaceae
Originating from South Africa
Tall, evergreen shrub with very large serrated leaves and racemes of red/brown flowers in late spring/summer. A spectacular choice to add yet more drama to an exotic border, its steely/green, 80cm long, jagged-edged leaves combining well and enjoy the same conditions as bananas and cannas. In late spring/early summer it may produce curious, red/brown flower spikes, which drip honey-scented nectar, and as you would imagine, are a magnet for bees. This is an aromatic plant -the leaves are distinctly peanut-scented when brushed against.
Melianthus major may remain evergreen in mild winters. Severe frost will cut it to the ground, but by providing a winter mulch around the roots, new growth will appear the following spring and grow surprisingly rapidly. It has a sprawling habit and may require some support.
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in sun.
Height and spread after 1 – 2 years 1.5m x 75cm
Mature height and spread after 10 – 12 years if not pruned 3m x 3m