Contents
Description
Melastoma Intermedium is a stunning tropical plant that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. This plant is known for its beautiful lavender-colored flowers that bloom in clusters. It is a fast-growing shrub that can reach up to 5 feet in height and width. Melastoma Intermedium is an ideal plant for gardeners who want to add a pop of color to their garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Melastoma |
Appearance
Melastoma Intermedium has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The leaves grow in an alternate pattern on the stem and can reach up to 6 inches in length. The plant’s flowers are a vibrant shade of purple and have a star-shaped appearance. The flowers grow in clusters and can measure up to 1 inch in diameter. The plant’s fruit is a small, round berry that is dark purple when ripe.
Care Guide
Melastoma Intermedium is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: This plant prefers consistently moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Melastoma Intermedium prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. Make sure to provide it with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Melastoma Intermedium is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melastoma Intermedium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Leaf spots: This is a fungal disease that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves.- Mealybugs: These pests can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth.- Spider mites: These pests can cause webbing and yellowing of the leaves.To prevent these issues, make sure to keep your plant clean and healthy by removing dead leaves and providing proper care.
Habitat
Melastoma Intermedium is native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. This plant prefers warm, humid climates and can grow well in areas with consistent rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melastoma Intermedium toxic to pets?
A: While there is no specific information on this plant’s toxicity, it is always best to keep pets away from any plant that is not intended for consumption.
Q: How often should I prune my Melastoma Intermedium?
A: Prune your plant as needed to maintain its shape and size. You can do this throughout the year, but avoid pruning during the winter months.
Q: Can I grow Melastoma Intermedium indoors?
A: This plant prefers to be grown outdoors in full sun to partial shade. While it can be grown indoors, it may not thrive as well as it would in its natural habitat.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Melastoma Intermedium?
A: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
– Melastoma malabathricum- Melastoma candidum- Melastoma sanguineum- Melastoma beccarianum
References
– “Melastoma intermedium” Plantz Africa. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/melastomaint.htm- “Melastoma intermedium” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c178- “Melastoma intermedium” World Agroforestry. https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/speciesprofile.php?Spid=2175
