Twelve-stamened Melastoma (Melastoma dodecandrum) is an evergreen shrub native to Asia, featuring showy pink flowers and edible fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade, protect from intense afternoon sun.
Keep consistently moist
75% intensity
Water when topsoil is dry to the touch, ensure good drainage.
Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C during the day, slightly cooler at night. Protect from frost.
Regular feeding during growth
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted during spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Melastoma dodecandrum prefers consistently moist conditions, especially during its active growth period.
Reduce watering slightly in winter to prevent waterlogged roots, but never allow the soil to dry out completely. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Prune after flowering to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done anytime to shape the plant.
Heavy pruning can be undertaken in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist potting mix. Maintain high humidity and warmth until roots develop.
Seed propagation is also possible but may be slower.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repotting provides fresh nutrients and prevents the plant from becoming root-bound, promoting healthier growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Twelve-Stamened Melastoma (Melastoma dodecandrum)
Where Twelve-Stamened Melastoma (Melastoma dodecandrum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Melastomataceae |
| Genus | Melastoma |
| Species | Melastoma dodecandrum |
Similar in genus Melastoma
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
