Honey Bush: Dramatic Foliage and Oddly Scented Crimson Flowers

Melianthus major (Honey Bush)

Honey bush has attractive 12–20 inch long pinnate leaves with sharply toothed silver-green leaflets. It bears spike-like racemes of oddly scented brownish crimson to brick-red flowers from late spring to midsummer.

Growing Conditions & Care

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Shelter from cold and wind, and protect from excessive winter moisture. Where not hardy, grow in a cold greenhouse and plant outside in summer, or treat as a perennial—it will resprout annually from the base where temperatures don't fall below 23°F.

Propagation

Root basal or softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Common Problems

Spider mites and whiteflies under glass.

Quick Reference

• Height: 6–10 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Growth Habit: Spreads
• Light: Full Sun
• Moisture: Medium
• Bloom Time: Spring, Summer
• Flower Color: Red
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point
• Seasonal Interest: Spring
• Type: Shrubs