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Photo by Magnus Manske

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Mackaya bella

Also Known As

Forest Bell Bush

Plant type

shrub, aquatic

size

H: 4'-8'
W: 4'-8'

planting zones

9a-11

Mackaya bella plant details

Mackaya bella is a broadleaf evergreen aquatic shrub with green foliage. In fall, spring and summer lavender and white flowers emerge. Features glossy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - regular water. Drought tolerant once established. Does well in rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Mackaya bella

Plant type: aquatic shrub
Plant family: acanthaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 4 FT - 8 FT - wide, 4 FT - 8 FT - tall
Flowers: lavender and white blooms in fall, spring and summer
Uses: spreading, understory, unique, wavy leaves

GROWING CONDITIONS for Mackaya bella

USDA Zones: 9a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular

Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Strange and wonderful, member of the acanthus family, endemic to South Africa, this clambering, evergreen shrub -- to 6-8 ft if trained against a wall, 4-5 ft if left on its own -- boasts glossy leaves on wiry stems and, in spring and summer, papery, white-bracted flowers, veined with a purple-blue -- reminiscent of Chinese lanterns. Drought tolerant, though loves rich garden conditions and summer water with good drainage to protect from winter rains. Full sun in cool climates or bright shade elsewhere. Evergreen in USDA zone 9 and perennial where temperatures drop below 20F. Best planted out where only light frosts occur. Good container plant or winter house plant. Particularly beautiful in gardens along the California and Oregon coasts.