Overview
Melastoma is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Melastoma, part of the Melastomataceae family, with evergreen foliage. Melastoma grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include architectural, patio and container plants, wall side borders and flower borders and beds.
About
Melastoma is a bushy evergreen shrub belonging to the Melastomataceae family. It thrives best in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, moist but well-drained loam soil with an acidic pH. Hardy to UK zone H3, this cultivar is suitable for architectural features, patio and container planting, as well as wall-side borders and flower beds. It offers seasonal interest in spring and summer and can be propagated by basal softwood cuttings or division in early spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melastoma
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Melastoma size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Patio and container plants, Wall side borders, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melastoma
- Propagation
- Basal softwood cuttings in spring, division in early spring
- Pest resistance
- Red spider mite, glasshouse whitefly
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Melastoma?
Melastoma prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Melastoma need?
Melastoma grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Melastoma hardy in the UK?
Melastoma has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Melastoma?
Basal softwood cuttings in spring, division in early spring.
