Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full sun, partial shade
Aspect:
East facing, south facing, west facing
Position in border:
Front
Shade type:
Damp

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Melittis melissophyllum is a herbaceous perennial native to the deciduous woodlands of Europe, including the UK. The foliage and flowers are sweetly aromatic, with a scent similar to sweet woodruff. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, so it's a great plant for a wildlife garden in shadier spots.

Melittis melissophyllum 'Royal Velvet Distinction' has the fuzzy foliage typical to the species, as well as deep green foliage and bicoloured flowers that are white and a lovely plum purple.

For best results, grow Melittis melissophyllum 'Royal Velvet Distinction' in dappled shade in a moist, humus-rich and well-drained soil. The humus content can be boosted by enriching the soil with leaf mould or garden compost. Basal cuttings can be taken in spring.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyesyesyesyesyes
Flowersyesyesyes
Take cuttingsyesyes

Melittis ‘Royal velvet distinction’ and wildlife

Melittis ‘Royal velvet distinction’ is known for attracting bees, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Melittis ‘Royal velvet distinction’ poisonous?

Melittis ‘Royal velvet distinction’ has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
Plants that go well with Melittis 'Royal Velvet Distinction'
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