Honey Flower (Melianthus major)

Family: Melianthaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Melianthus major is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Deliciously sweet, a tiny bit seems to go a long way - which is very useful since the plant does not produce that much in the British climate. — The honey-like nectar from the flowers is eaten.; Deliciously sweet, a tiny bit seems to go a long way - which is very useful since the plant does not produce that much in the British climate.

Habitat & North American Range

Damp sandy areas. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)