Melianthus
Honey Bush
Big, bold, blue and architectural pretty much sums up the fantastic posture of this quick growing South African native.
Big, bold, blue and architectural pretty much sums up the fantastic posture of this Melianthus selection named after Seattle plantsman Steve Antonow. Deeply divided in an exotic feather-like fashion, the glaucous, nearly iridescent, blue leaflets are prominently toothed, while gracefully curving downward. Erect and thick, gray-green stems infused with rosy-purple hues host the highly textured foliage that can grow up to 18 in. long, making an enduring addition to arrangements. Elevated above the tropical-style foundation, intriguing 1 ft. long terminal spikes showcase deep brick-red bracts with green stamens, later followed by ornamental papery seed pods. Evergreen in warmer climates and choice for a container in colder areas, the Honey Bush grows into a spreading subshrub, sculpting a dramatic, quick growing specimen if given room to move, average moisture, well-drained soil and a heavy winter mulch.
Blooms June–August
Size: 6' 0" high x 6' 0" wide.
Zone 7/8.
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