Honey-flower
Melianthus major
Family: Melianthaceae
What it is like
A shrub. It grows 1.8-3 m high. It has hollow thick stems. They grow from ground level with a few side branches. The leaves are large and have leaflets along the stalk. The leaves are 50 cm long and with 17 oval leaflets. The flowers are dark brown. They are in long, erect stalks. The fruit are black.
There are 6 Melianthus species. They occur in South Africa.
Where it is found
It grows in warm temperate places. It can grow in sun or light shade. It can tolerate drought. It is native to hilly grasslands of South Africa. It suits hardiness zones 8-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Australia, East Africa, Europe, France, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa, St Helena, Tasmania, Zambia
How it is used for food
The honey-like nectar of the flower is collected and eaten.
Edible parts
Flower nectar