Mackaya bella aka Forest Bellbush

Mackaya bella, also known as the forest bell bush, is a spreading evergreen shrub native to South Africa. This species, belonging to the acanthus family Acanthaceae, can reach a height and width of 1.5 m (4.9 ft). It features glossy green leaves and produces trumpet-shaped pale lilac flowers with delicate purple veining. Although not tolerant of temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F), it can be placed outdoors in a protected area during summer. Mackaya bella thrives in alkaline or neutral soil and has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's prestigious Award of Garden Merit. With its dark green, glossy leaves, Mackaya bella is a hardy evergreen shrub that captivates with its beauty. From early spring to November, this plant showcases magnificent long bunches of lilac or white, funnel-shaped flowers. These exquisite blooms, measuring 5cm across, are delicately veined with purple, creating a striking visual effect. Mackaya bella thrives in deep shade, where the flowers seem to emit a radiant glow in the darkness. The purple streaks within the flowers act as guiding lights for insects, attracting them towards the nectar and facilitating the pollination process.