SafePlants

Melianthus major: The Giant Honey Flower

Melianthus major, commonly known as the Honey bush or Kruidjie-roer-my-nie ("herb-touch-me-not"), is a striking foliage plant cherished for its architectural presence and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that brushing past the leaves can release a surprising smell, which might be of interest (or aversion) to pets.
• The plant produces nectar, which could attract insects that pets might be tempted to chase or eat.

Considerations for Children

• The leaves are described as sharply serrated, which could be a potential source of minor cuts or scratches.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Melianthus major
• Common Names: Honey bush, Giant honey flower, Kruidjie-roer-my-nie
• Genus: Melianthus
• Family: Melianthaceae

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South Africa.
• Naturalized in India, Australia, and New Zealand.
• Observed in locations such as the Namaqua Fur Seal Colony Trail (likely referring to Melianthus elongatus).

Morphological Characteristics

• Fast-growing evergreen shrub, potentially reaching up to 12 feet tall or more.
• Glaucous-green pinnate foliage, deeply divided and combed at the margins.
• Leaves are 12- to 20-inches long, with sharply serrated edges.
• May produce blood red to chocolate flowers.

Growth Habits

• Suckering shrub that can spread rapidly by sucker roots.
• Has two distinct growing periods, particularly in spring.
• Can be grown in sunny borders or in the shade.
• Suitable for containers or as a frontal feature in borders.

Ecological Role

• It is known to naturalize in certain regions and has the potential to spread rapidly via suckering roots, which could indicate invasive tendencies in some environments.

Quirky Facts

• The Afrikaans name "Kruidjie-roer-my-nie" translates to "herb-touch-me-not," possibly hinting at a characteristic of the plant's leaves or a historical use.
• The plant produces nectar in such quantity, that it is called "Honey Flower" for a good reason.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) provides help and information.
• Burncoose Nurseries and Urban Jungle Norfolk Garden Centre and Nursery are sources for purchasing plants.
• Sarah Raven offers the plant for sale.