Mackaya bella aka Forest Bellbush

Mackaya bella, or forest bell bush, is an evergreen shrub. It belongs to the acanthus family, Acanthaceae. It comes from mixed forests in South Africa. Its native climate is subtropical. The name Asystasia bella is a synonym. Gardeners grow it for its glossy leaves and pale flowers. It forms a bushy, spreading shrub that keeps its leaves year-round.

Garden plants reach about 3–6 feet [0.9–1.83 metres] tall. The RHS gives a smaller height of 3.3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Spread can reach 6 feet [1.83 metres]. Plants take five to ten years to mature. The deep green leaves grow in opposite pairs. They have an elliptic shape, pointed tips, and wavy edges. Clear veins mark their glossy surface. Each leaf can reach 3–5 inches [7.6–12.7 centimetres] long.

Arching racemes carry flowers at the ends of shoots. Each bloom forms a bell-like funnel with five lobes. The RHS describes a slight two-lipped shape. Flowers range from pale lilac to white, with fine purple veins. They measure about 2 inches [5 centimetres]. Missouri Botanical Garden lists flowering from May to September. Its broader account places bloom from spring into fall. The flowers stand out against the dark leaves.

This shrub needs warmth and shelter from frost. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 10–11, though its care notes include zone 9b. The RHS rates it H1B, allowing summer outdoor use in Britain. It prefers partial shade, though it can grow in full sun. Strong sun may turn the leaves pale or yellow. Under glass, give bright filtered light and shade from hot sun. Use moist soil that drains well, with compost and moderate fertility. The RHS lists sandy or loamy soil with neutral or alkaline pH. Water needs are moderate. Under glass, apply a balanced liquid feed each month. Missouri Botanical Garden warns that greenhouse culture can prove difficult.

In frost-free gardens, use it in shrub borders or informal hedges. It also suits a stand-alone planting, patio pot, or container. Its evergreen leaves provide interest through winter. Prune greenhouse plants in late winter to keep their size in check. Raise new plants from seed or semi-ripe cuttings. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon in the cited accounts. Still, glasshouse whitefly and red spider mites may attack it. The sources provide no clear evidence on edible parts or toxicity.