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About this variety
Melastoma malabathricum is a tropical evergreen shrub with purplish-pink, five-petalled flowers that each open for a single day. Its ripe capsules split to show dark purple pulp that stains the mouth, hence the name Blue Tongue. The packet holds 100 seeds.
Also known as: Indian Rhododendron, Malabar Melastome, Blue Tongue. Family Melastomataceae.
Plant at a glance
- Height: usually 1–2 m, up to 5 m in good conditions.
- Leaves: ovate to elliptic, 4–14 cm long and 1.7–3.5 cm wide, stiff and finely hairy.
- Flowers: clusters at the branch tips; petals drop soon after the one-day bloom.
- Fruit: berry-like capsules with dark purple pulp and many small seeds.
Climate limit: no frost
This is a plant of tropical and subtropical climates and is sensitive to frost. Where winters freeze, keep it in a container that can come indoors.
Sowing and care
- Sow in a well-draining seed-starting mix, keep it evenly moist and warm.
- Expect seedlings within a few weeks.
- Grow on in acidic, well-draining soil rich in organic matter, in full sun to partial shade.
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in dry periods.
What you get
One packet of 100 Melastoma malabathricum seeds. We do not state a germination percentage for this lot.
FAQ
Does it need acid soil?
It prefers acidic soil rich in organic matter, though it adapts to other soil types if drainage is good.
Will it survive a frost?
No. It is frost-sensitive and suits tropical and subtropical climates.
