Honey bush Melianthus comosus
ABOUT
Melianthus comosus, commonly known as the touch-me-not plant, is notable for its distinctive foliage and flowers. The leaves of this plant are generally compound, with individual leaflets arranged in pairs along a central stem, giving them a feathery or fern-like appearance. These leaflets are often serrated or toothed, with a grey-green color that sometimes takes on a bluish hue, underscored by a unique silvery sheen. The stems of the touch-me-not plant are sturdy, bearing the weight of the leaves and supporting the plant’s substantial growth. During its flowering season, the touch-me-not plant produces intricate blooms that draw attention with their striking appearance. The flowers are generally grouped in erect, elongated clusters that rise above the foliage. Each bloom typically boasts an unusual shape and a peculiar, captivating aesthetic. The color of the flowers varies, but they are often a dusky or pinkish red, creating a vibrant contrast with the cool-toned leaves. In addition, the touch-me-not plant may have a coarse texture, with the leaves and stems sometimes covered in fine hairs that can give the plant a somewhat rough feel to the touch. This tactile characteristic contributes to its common name, as the leaves sometimes appear to recoil when handled, a response that intrigues many plant enthusiasts. Despite the absence of discussion on the dimensions of the plant, its structural elements and botanical attributes provide a comprehensive visual description that captures the essence of the touch-me-not plant's appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Melianthaceae
Synonyms
Honey Flower, Honey Bush, Touch-me-not
Common names
Melianthus comosus
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as the Honey Bush is considered toxic to humans if ingested. The entire plant contains toxic compounds, especially in the leaves. Symptoms of Honey Bush poisoning may include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, it could potentially lead to more serious consequences including neurological symptoms, though this is less common. It is advised to avoid consuming any part of this plant and to seek medical attention if ingestion occurs.
To pets
The Honey Bush plant is also toxic to pets. Similar to its effects in humans, ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and possible lethargy in animals. If a pet consumes parts of this plant, it is important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible to manage the symptoms and prevent more serious health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Blue-green
Flower color
Brown
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Melianthus comosus, commonly known as the Honeybush, displays unique foliage and striking architectural form, making it a visually appealing addition to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Honeybush is well adapted to dry conditions, requiring minimal water once established, which makes it suitable for drought-prone areas and water-conservative gardening.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the Honeybush can attract nectar-feeding birds and beneficial insects to the garden, fostering a vibrant ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Honeybush is known for being low-maintenance, not often requiring pruning, fertilizing, or pest control, which is ideal for gardeners seeking ease of care.
- Texture and Color: Its serrated, blue-green leaves and red-brown flower spikes add interesting texture and color contrast to garden compositions.
Medical Properties- Melianthus comosus, commonly known as Honey Flower, does not have well-documented medical properties in scientific literature, and as of my last knowledge update, there are no widely recognized medicinal uses for this plant.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Melianthus comosus, commonly known as the Honey Bush, can be utilized in landscape gardening for its unique, serrated foliage and striking architectural form.
- The nectar from the flowers of the Honey Bush can be a food source for birds, particularly sunbirds, attracting them to gardens for birdwatchers to enjoy.
- The leaf sap of the Honey Bush can be used as a traditional ink in some cultures, due to its dark coloration.
- The crushed leaves of the Honey Bush emit a strong fragrance and can be used in potpourris or as a natural air freshener for their peculiar peanut butter scent.
- The Honey Bush's aesthetic foliage can be used in floral arrangements to create a contrast with traditional flowers, adding a touch of the unusual to bouquets.
- The tall structure and dense growth of the Honey Bush can provide shelter and hiding spots for small wildlife in the garden, such as lizards and insects.
- Gardeners might use the Honey Bush as a natural screen or hedge to create privacy due to its fast-growing and bushy characteristics.
- In some regions, the large leaves of the Honey Bush are used in crafting, such as for making impressions in pottery or as a natural stencil.
- The dried seed pods of the Honey Bush can serve as interesting components in dried flower arrangements or as natural decorative objects.
- Some gardeners may engage in the art of topiary with the Honey Bush, sculpting its growth into creative shapes and forms for garden design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Honey Bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Honey Bush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Magnificence: The architectural form and bold texture of Melianthus comosus, commonly known as touch-me-not or honey bush, can symbolize magnificence or grandeur in a garden setting.
- Protection: The sharp edges and slightly toxic nature of the plant can be seen as a symbol of protection or defense against harm.
- Uniqueness: With its unique foliage and uncommon appearance, the honey bush might represent uniqueness or standing out from the crowd.
- Danger: Due to its toxic properties, Melianthus comosus can also symbolize danger and the need for caution.
WaterThe honey bush (Melianthus comosus) prefers consistently moist soil, so watering once a week during active growth periods is generally sufficient. It may require more frequent watering in hot, dry conditions. When watering, aim to provide the honey bush with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water to ensure the soil is thoroughly saturated, but avoid waterlogging. During winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment, as the plant goes into a dormant state and requires less moisture.
LightThe honey bush thrives in full sun to partial shade. A spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal, but the plant can also tolerate filtered or dappled sunlight. Avoid deep shade as it can lead to leggy growth and reduced foliage quality.
TemperatureThe honey bush performs best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 23°F before risking damage. Ideal growing conditions involve warm days and cooler nights, mimicking its native habitat conditions.
PruningPruning honey bush is necessary to maintain its shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or damaged foliage. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back the plant by a third of its size annually, and shape as needed to keep it tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilTouch-me-not (a common name for Melianthus comosus) prefers a well-draining soil mix with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (6.0 to 7.0). A mix containing loam, sand, and organic compost is suitable. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
RepottingTouch-me-not should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot, to provide fresh soil and encourage growth.
Humidity & MistingTouch-me-not thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA.
Life cycleMelianthus comosus, commonly known as Honey Bush, initiates its life cycle when seeds germinate, typically in spring or early summer, given warm temperatures and sufficient moisture. Seedlings emerge with characteristic pinnate leaves and begin to establish a root system. As the plant grows, it develops into a shrubby form with deeply dissected, blue-green leaves that exude a peculiar peanut butter-like scent when crushed. During late spring to summer, the Honey Bush produces tall spikes of reddish-brown flowers that attract pollinators, with the flowering stage being vital for sexual reproduction. Following pollination, flowers develop into elongated pods filled with black seeds that, when mature, are dispersed by various means, including wind or water. The plant may die back in colder climates during winter but can resprout from its rhizomes or rootstock with the return of favorable conditions in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Melianthus comosus, commonly known as the Honey Bush, is primarily propagated through seed sowing or division. The most popular method of propagation for Honey Bush is by seeds. Sow the seeds in late winter or early spring, using well-draining soil in a sunny location. Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1/4 inch (about 6 mm) and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes around two to three weeks. Once seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and the frost danger has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors into their permanent positions, ensuring they are spaced to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.
