Melastoma affine, commonly known as blue tongue, is a fast-growing, flowering shrub or small tree native to Southeast Asia and northern Australia. It's a member of the Melastomataceae family and is admired for its striking purple to violet flowers and its role in rainforest regeneration.
🌿 Quick Facts:
Scientific name: Melastoma affine
Common names: Blue tongue, Native Lasiandra
Family: Melastomataceae
Habit: Shrub or small tree (up to 3 meters tall)
Leaves: Opposite, ovate, with distinct longitudinal veins
Flowers: Large, vibrant purple to mauve with five petals
Fruit: Fleshy capsule that splits open when ripe, exposing dark pulp and seeds
Blooming season: Spring to summer
🌸 Notable Features:
"Blue tongue" nickname comes from the dark blue-black pulp of the fruit that stains the mouth and tongue when eaten.
Pollinator-friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Often used in revegetation projects due to its fast growth and ability to thrive in disturbed soils.
Plays an important ecological role in rainforest understories.
🌱 Cultivation Tips:
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining soil (tolerates a range of conditions)
Watering: Regular watering during dry periods
Propagation: Easily grown from seed or cuttings
