Melastoma affine – Blue Tongue

Melastoma affine - Blue Tongue
Melastoma affine - Blue Tongue
Melastoma affine - Blue Tongue

A hardy evergreen medium sized shrub with mauve flowers in spring and summer. The flowers are followed by sweet blue-black berries that stain, which give the common name of Blue Tongue, and lots of fun for kids. Naturally grows in tropical and sub tropical areas, in moist well drained soils. Prefers part shade and protection from frost and winds.

Family : Melastomataceae

Cultivar Name:

Plant Type : Small shrub, Large shrub

Width : 1.5

Flowering Time : Spring, Summer

Soil Type : Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam

Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical

Growth Habit : Evergreen

Soil Moisture : Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage

Special Uses : Edible, Decorative fruit

Scientific Name: Melastoma affine

Common Name : Blue Tongue

Height : 3

Flower Color : Purple, Mauve

pH Level : Acid, Neutral

Plant Environment :

Light : Light shade

Lifespan : Perennial

Frost Tolerance : Not frost tolerant

Attracts Wildlife : Bees, Other insects