Melastoma
Botanical name: Melastoma
Melastoma
Botanical name: Melastoma
Description
Many members of the melastoma genus are valuable bushtucker food in their native areas. In other areas, they are a popular garden plant. Some species of melastoma were introduced to North America where they are now considered Federal Noxious Weed due to the fact that their berries and seeds are known to contaminate agricultural crops.
Species of Melastoma
Intermediata melastoma
Many members of the intermediata melastoma genus are valuable bushtucker food in their native areas. In other areas, they are a popular garden plant. Some species of intermediata melastoma were introduced to North America where they are now considered Federal Noxious Weed due to the fact that their berries and seeds are known to contaminate agricultural crops.
Common melastoma
Common melastoma might be a little bit too common since it is a highly invasive shrub spreading rapidly in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant actually has attractive five-petalled purple flowers, which has contributed to its frequent ornamental use.
Malabar melastome
Malabar melastome is a tropical, evergreen shrub with pink to purple flowers. It needs consistent moisture to thrive. It is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. In some areas, it is considered a weed.
Melastoma denticulatum
Many members of the melastoma denticulatum genus are valuable bushtucker food in their native areas. In other areas, they are a popular garden plant. Some species of melastoma denticulatum were introduced to North America where they are now considered Federal Noxious Weed due to the fact that their berries and seeds are known to contaminate agricultural crops.
Scientific Classification
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