Heterocentron elegans, commonly known as Spanish shawl, is a low-growing shrub in the Melastomataceae family. It reaches up to 10 cm in height with a spread of about 1 metre. The plant features opposite, ovate to oblong leaves measuring 1-2 cm long and up to 1.5 cm wide, often showing a purplish tinge. Suited to full sun and sheltered, south-facing positions, it thrives in moist, neutral loam soils. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is an ornamental choice for spring and summer interest and can be propagated by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.

Heterocentron elegans (Spanish shawl) is a hardy ornamental plant for full sun, blooming beautifully in spring and summer in UK gardens.

Heterocentron is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Melastomataceae.

Heterocentron elegans

Heterocentron roseum is a low-growing shrub from the Melastomataceae family, reaching up to 10 cm in height with a spread of about 1 m. It features opposite, ovate to oblong leaves measuring 1-2 cm long and up to 1.5 cm wide, often displaying a purplish tinge. This cultivar thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil that is neutral in pH and kept moist. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is cultivated primarily for ornamental use and is best propagated by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings, with interest during spring and summer.

Heterocentron roseum is a hardy (H4) ornamental plant thriving in full sun, blooming beautifully in spring and summer for vibrant garden interest.