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Description
Melastoma Malabathricum, also known as the Indian Rhododendron or Senduduk, is a flowering shrub native to Southeast Asia. This plant belongs to the Melastomataceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Melastoma |
Appearance
Melastoma Malabathricum is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 4 meters in height. It has a dense and bushy growth habit with woody stems and branches. The leaves are simple, opposite, and elliptical in shape, measuring 7 to 20 cm in length and 3 to 10 cm in width. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture.The flowers of Melastoma Malabathricum are large, showy, and produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers are magenta in color and have five petals, measuring 4 to 5 cm in diameter. The fruit is a small berry that turns from green to purple when ripe.
Care Guide
Melastoma Malabathricum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some care tips:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Melastoma Malabathricum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melastoma Malabathricum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:- Mealybugs: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Habitat
Melastoma Malabathricum is native to Southeast Asia and can be found in various habitats, including forests, scrublands, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist and well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Melastoma Malabathricum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune my Melastoma Malabathricum?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant at this time.
Q: Does Melastoma Malabathricum attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Melastoma Malabathricum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, it can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Melastoma Malabathricum:- Melastoma Sanguineum- Melastoma Candidum- Melastoma Decemfidum- Melastoma Polyanthum
References
– “Melastoma Malabathricum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287676.- “Melastoma Malabathricum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16166/Melastoma-malabathricum/Details.- “Melastoma Malabathricum.” Singapore National Parks Board, www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/1/6/1695.
