Melianthus major aka Tall Cape Honey Flower

Melianthus major, also known as the giant honey flower or kruidjie-roer-my-nie, is a species of evergreen suckering shrub in the Francoaceae family. It is native to South Africa but can also be found in India, Australia, and New Zealand where it has naturalized. This plant typically grows to a height of 2-3 meters and spreads out to 1-3 meters wide. Its pinnate blue-green leaves, measuring 30-50 cm in length, emit a distinct musky odor. In spring, it produces dark red flower spikes that are 30-80 cm long and filled with nectar, followed by green pods. It is important to note that all parts of this plant are poisonous. Melianthus major, also referred to as honeybush, is a recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. In cultivation, it requires a sheltered location and may need a protective winter mulch in colder regions. Additionally, there is a cultivar of Melianthus major that grows to around 1.2 meters with glaucous and purple-tinged foliage. After a hot summer, it may produce spikes of deep red-brown tubular flowers. Overall, Melianthus major is an evergreen shrub with pinnate leaves and small, tubular flowers that can be grown as an herbaceous perennial.