Memecylon ovatum, Memecylon edule
Family: Melastomataceae
Phlong Kin Luuk, Delek Air
Origin: SE Asia
large shrub 5-10 ft, small tree 10-20 ft, full sun, semi-shade,
regular water, blue/lavender/purple flowers, ethno medical, attracts
butterflies, hummingbirds, ultra tropical, min. temp. 55F, Seaside,
salt tolerant
A large shrub or small tree, up to 8-14m tall with amazing bright
blue flowers that look almost unreal. As the petals are shed, the
sands below are dusted lilac. Initially yellow fruits turn red and
finally black. M. ovatum is sometimes regarded as a variety of
Memecylon edule Roxb., but the latter species differs in having pink
flowers, yellow fruits turning black, and small leaves. However, the
species are very close. Probably the leaves contain a lot of
aluminium as is commonly found in Melastomataceae. M. ovatum is very
common on rocky and sandy shores. Leaves and roots are used as a
medicine. In some sources Memecylon umbellatum is indicated as
synonim of Memecylon ovatum. |
