Summary: Melianthus major is a plant in the Melianthaceae family.

Botanical name: Melianthus major L. Family: Melianthaceae Origin: South Africa Common name: Melianthus major, sweet bush Hardiness: -8°C IUCN Red List: LC (least concerned)

CCVS Collection

Description

Melianthus major is a shrub that can reach 2 meters in height. The well-cut leaves are bluish-grey and smell of peanuts when crumpled. The flowers, which appear in late spring, are reddish and are followed by parchment-like fruits. The flowers are melliferous and their nectar was used by European settlers arriving in South Africa to replace honey. However, the rest of the plant should not be eaten, as it is toxic. It needs well-drained soil.