Heterocentron

Description

Heterocentron is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Melastomataceae. This genus comprises 16 species of herbaceous perennials that are native to tropical regions of Central and South America. Heterocentron plants are known for their attractive, brightly colored flowers that bloom in clusters. The flowers have five petals and are usually pink, purple, or red. The foliage of Heterocentron plants is also quite attractive, with leaves that are ovate or elliptic and have a velvety texture.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Heterocentron plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. They have a bushy growth habit and produce numerous stems that are covered in ovate or elliptic leaves. The leaves are velvety to the touch and range in color from light green to dark green. The flowers of Heterocentron plants are the main attraction, with clusters of pink, purple, or red blooms that are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The flowers have five petals and are surrounded by a ring of sepals.

Care Guide

Water

Heterocentron plants prefer consistently moist soil, but they don’t like to be waterlogged. Water them thoroughly once a week, making sure the soil is evenly moist.

Fertilization

Heterocentron plants benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month.

Soil

Heterocentron plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite works well.

Sunlight

Heterocentron plants prefer partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, they may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones

Heterocentron plants are hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Heterocentron plants are relatively disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to fungal leaf spot if they are grown in humid conditions. They may also be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Heterocentron plants are native to tropical regions of Central and South America, where they grow in open forests and along riverbanks. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Heterocentron plants be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Heterocentron plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive bright, indirect light and are kept consistently moist.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Heterocentron plant?

A: Heterocentron plants benefit from monthly fertilization during the growing season.

Q: Do Heterocentron plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Heterocentron plants are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Q: How often should I water my Heterocentron plant?

A: Water your Heterocentron plant thoroughly once a week, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.

Related Plants

• Melastoma malabathricum
• Memecylon umbellatum
• Osbeckia octandra
• Phyllagathis rotundifolia

References

• Flora of Ecuador: Heterocentron
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Heterocentron
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Melastoma malabathricum
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Memecylon umbellatum