Contents
Description
Memecylon Pauciflorum is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. It is native to India and Sri Lanka and is commonly known as ‘Kattalai’ or ‘Kattalai Maram’ in Tamil. The tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and has a dense crown of shiny, dark green leaves. Its flowers are small, pink, and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the tree is a small purple berry that contains many seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Memecylon |
Appearance
The Memecylon Pauciflorum tree has a straight trunk with a smooth grey bark. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical in shape, with a length of 7-15 cm and a width of 3-6 cm. The leaves are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and paler underneath. The tree produces small pink flowers that are 5-7 mm in diameter and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the tree is a small purple berry that is 6-8 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Memecylon Pauciflorum requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the topsoil to dry before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full to partial sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Memecylon Pauciflorum is susceptible to pests and diseases, including mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spots. To prevent these problems, make sure to keep your plant clean and free from debris. You can also use insecticides and fungicides to control pests and diseases.
Habitat
Memecylon Pauciflorum is native to India and Sri Lanka and is commonly found in tropical forests and scrublands. The tree prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Memecylon Pauciflorum?
A: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the topsoil to dry before watering again.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Memecylon Pauciflorum?
A: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 10-11.
Q: What pests are common for Memecylon Pauciflorum?
A: Mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spots are common pests for this plant.
Q: What is the habitat of Memecylon Pauciflorum?
A: The plant is native to India and Sri Lanka and is commonly found in tropical forests and scrublands.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Memecylon Pauciflorum:
- Memecylon edule
- Memecylon caeruleum
- Memecylon umbellatum
References
- “Memecylon Pauciflorum – Useful Tropical Plants.” Useful Tropical Plants, www.prota4u.org/database/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Memecylon+pauciflorum+(Roxb.)+Wight+%26+Arn.
- “Memecylon Pauciflorum (Roxb.) Wight & Arn. | Species | India Biodiversity Portal.” India Biodiversity Portal, indiabiodiversity.org/species/show/267979.
- “Memecylon Pauciflorum – Kattalai Maram.” Flowers of India, www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Kattalai%20Maram.html.
