Malabar melastome
Melastoma malabathricum · Melastomataceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around malabar melastome and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Melastome, Asian Flower
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to autumn, pink-mauve flowers
- Adult size
- 1 to 2 m in height and width
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tropical to subtropical climate, sensitive to cold
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing and flowering periods. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid hard water and complete substrate drying, but do not leave the plant waterlogged.
Light exposure
Place your melastome in bright light, ideally in partial shade in very hot regions. Indirect sunlight exposure promotes abundant flowering. Indoors, a location near an east or west-facing window is ideal.
Soil and repotting
Use a rich, light, and well-draining substrate composed of heather soil, peat, and perlite. Slightly acidic pH is preferred. Repot in spring every 2 to 3 years to stimulate growth.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to balance the shape and encourage branching. Remove dead or diseased branches as soon as you spot them. Regular pruning maintains a compact, bushy form.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced or potassium-rich fertilizer every 15 to 20 days during the growing and flowering period (spring-autumn). Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter. Prefer mild formulations for acid-loving plants.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and scale insects, particularly in dry air. Poor drainage or stagnant moisture can promote root rot. Maintain good air circulation and adjust watering accordingly.
Did you know?
The melastome is famous for its intense pink-mauve flowers and highly visible golden-yellow stamens, making it a prized ornamental plant in tropical gardens. Its veined foliage and spectacular blue fruits after flowering add multiple layers of botanical interest to this dynamic species.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.