Care of the shrub Freylinia lanceolata or Honey bells |
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The genus Freylinia, family Scrophulariaceae, includes 12 species of shrubs and trees native to Africa. Some species are: Freylinia lanceolata, Freylinia tropica, Freylinia visseri, Freylinia crispa, Freylinia rigida. Common names: Honey bells, Honey bell-bush. This species is native to South Africa. They are evergreen shrubs or small trees with arching branches (like willows) that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. The long lanceolate leaves are dark green. The yellowish tubular flowers appear in clusters and give off a pleasant scent of honey. They can bloom in summer, fall and winter. Honey bells is used as isolated specimens, to form screens, next to watercourses, in shrubby groups and as a background for borders. It's ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Freylinia lanceolata needs full sun exposure and a warm and dry climate (Mediterranean). Withstands light frost. Honey bell-bush grows in any well-drained soil; use normal garden soil drained with coarse sand. Water regularly so the substrate never dries out completely. Freylinia lanceolata does not like drought. Fertilize with a little compost in spring. Prune at the end of winter to maintain a compact habit. Freylinia lanceolata is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases. Honey bells is easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or fall and by cuttings taken in summer. |
Images of the shrub Freylinia lanceolata or Honey bells |
 Freylinia lanceolata  Freylinia lanceolata |