Melianthus comosus
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Melianthus comosus

Tufted honey-flower · Honey flower · Touch-me-not

Tier 2 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
91
Observations
28

Description

Source: leafsnap

Melianthus comosus, the honey flower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Francoaceae. It is native to the mostly dry regions of southern Africa. The attractive multi-stemmed shrubs are popular garden subjects. The Afrikaans name kruidjie-roer-my-nie (herb-touch-me-not) alludes to the unpleasant smell that results from bruising of any part of the plant. The vegetative parts are very toxic, as with other Melianthus species, and extracts of the leaves and stem have anti-bacterial properties.

Care Guide

💧 Water

The honey flower, native to regions with seasonal rainfall, thrives with consistent moisture and can tolerate moderate drought once it is established. Watering twice a week simulates its natural cycle. Using rainwater for irrigation can enhance nutrient absorption and promote healthy growth during its active growing season.

☀️ Light Full sun

Honey flower is native to open habitats like sunlit meadows and forest edges that offer abundant light. It grows best in full sun but will also tolerate partial sun, adapting well to different sunlight levels.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Honey flower is reasonably adaptable to temperature, capable of withstanding high heat and fairly large temperature swings. In hot conditions, attention should be given to watering and providing adequate shade to avoid sunburn. However, Honey flower is not very tolerant of low temperatures. While it can endure some cold, overly cold conditions can cause frost damage.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

The timing of fertilization is essential for Honey flower. Apply fertilizer in early spring and repeat monthly until early summer. Fertilizer promotes attractive blooms and supplies energy both during dormancy and active growth.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

The Honey Flower boasts attractive, nectar-rich blooms and lush foliage. To encourage growth and improve air circulation, prune the plant in early spring by trimming any damaged stems just above a bud. Regular pruning helps to maintain the plant's size and vigor, enhancing its overall appearance. Be sure to use clean tools to prevent the spread of disease.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Melianthus
Family
Francoaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
2.13 m to 3.05 m
Mature Spread
1.52 m to 2.13 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho

Tags (6)

Common Names (3)

en Tufted honey-flower
en Honey flower
en Touch-me-not