Melianthus major

The most sumptuous foliage plant for the hot, dry garden. Comes from S. Africa, so not reliably hardy in the coldest counties. It has survived many years in the gardens here in East Anglia, in well-drained soil, sprouting from its woody base after severe winters. A mulch of light material protects the underground shoots. Large grey-green leaves, deeply cut and tooth-edged are proudly presented on thick branching stems. If over-wintered deep maroon curved flower spikes should appear.