Overview
Melastoma fasciculare Sw. is a member of the Melastomataceae family. It is commonly known as the cluster melastome and can be found in various regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used by traditional healers to treat a range of ailments.
General Appearance
The cluster melastome is a small to medium-sized perennial shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters in height. This plant has dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are around 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are bright purple and arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, round, and fleshy berry that is around 1 cm in diameter.
Common Names
The cluster melastome is known by several common names, including Ratu Gesing (Indonesia), Sumpaga (Malaysia), and Tugod (Philippines). These names vary depending on the region and language.
Uses
Traditional healers in Southeast Asia have been using the cluster melastome for centuries to treat various health conditions. The leaves and stems are used to make a decoction that is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antibacterial properties. This plant is also used to treat wounds, fever, diarrhea, and toothache. The fruit of the cluster melastome is edible and is used in some traditional recipes. Additionally, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental in some regions.
Light Requirements
Melastoma fasciculare Sw. prefers to grow in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures between 10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F). However, it grows best in warm and humid conditions with temperatures around 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). The minimum temperature for growth is 7°C (45°F).
Soil Requirements
Melastoma fasciculare Sw. grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range between 4.5 to 6.5. It prefers slightly acidic soils with high organic matter content. The soil should also be rich in nutrients and moisture-retentive.
Cultivation Methods
Melastoma fasciculare Sw., commonly known as Showy Melastome, is a tropical shrub that prefers warm and humid climates. It can be grown as a container plant indoors or outdoors in USDA Zones 8b to 11. When planting directly into the ground, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter, so adding compost or manure before planting is recommended. Plant the shrub in a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and as deep as the root ball's height. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for Melastoma fasciculare's growth and development. The plant requires consistent soil moisture, especially during the growing season. It is recommended to water the shrub deeply once a week, rather than frequent shallow watering. Check the soil's moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If it feels dry, it's time to water. Reduce watering during the winter months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Feeding your Melastoma fasciculare is a necessary aspect of maintenance. Apply a slow-release fertilizer with balanced nutrients during the growing season, following the package directions. Fertilize the plant in early spring when it starts producing new growth, and again in late summer to support fall blooms. Avoid over-fertilization, as it may cause excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the Melastoma fasciculare's shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the shrub in early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches, and cut back about one-third of the old wood. Regular pruning helps the plant grow new shoots from the base or along the branches, giving it a fuller appearance. Deadheading spent blooms encourages the plant to produce more flowers. Pinch back the tips of the young shoots to promote bushiness. Avoid pruning during the winter, as it may stimulate new growth that can be damaged by frost.
Propagation of Melastoma fasciculare Sw.
Melastoma fasciculare Sw., commonly known as mountain melastome, is a tropical plant species that is native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is a popular ornamental plant because of its showy flowers, and it is often used in landscaping and gardening. The following are the propagation methods used for Melastoma fasciculare Sw.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Melastoma fasciculare Sw. Collect seeds from mature fruits of the plant by hand. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. The seeds are very small and should be planted shallowly. Cover the container with clear plastic to maintain moisture while allowing light to penetrate. Place the container in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Germination of seeds takes about 7 to 10 days. Seedlings can be transplanted to pots or planting sites after reaching a height of 10 to 15 cm.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is a rapid and reliable method for propagating Melastoma fasciculare Sw. Take stem cuttings from the current year's growth in the early morning. Cut sections that are 10-15 cm in length and have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot or directly in the ground. Water the cutting daily and shield it from direct sunlight until it establishes roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering propagation is another method of propagating Melastoma fasciculare Sw. that is widely used. Identify a low hanging branch and remove a 3 to 5 cm section of bark from the middle of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area. Wrap the wounded area with moist sphagnum moss and cover it with plastic wrap to hold moisture. In about 2 to 3 weeks, roots will appear at the wounded area. Cut the branch below the rooted area and plant it in a pot or directly in the ground.
In conclusion, propagation of Melastoma fasciculare Sw. can be done using seeds, cuttings, or air layering. Seed propagation is the most common and straightforward method. Cuttings propagation is relatively easy, while air layering is more advanced but is the most reliable method.
Disease and Pest Management of Melastoma fasciculare Sw.
Melastoma fasciculare Sw. or known as mauve melastome is a beautiful shrub that can add some color to the garden. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause damage and reduce its quality. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
Canker disease: This disease is caused by fungi that can cause lesions on the stems and branches of the plant. To control it, affected branches must be pruned and destroyed. A fungicide can also be applied to the plant to prevent further spread of the disease.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a disease caused by fungi that can cause circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicide sprays can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To control this disease, prune affected areas and apply a fungicide. It's also important to ensure the plant is getting enough air circulation.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the plant by sucking out its sap. To control them, wash them off with a strong stream of water. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden to control their population.
Mealybugs: These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking out its sap, as well as secreting honeydew that attracts ants. To control them, remove them manually or apply insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs can also help to keep their population in check.
Scale insects: These small insects can cause damage to the plant by sucking out its sap and secreting honeydew. To control them, prune affected areas and remove them manually. Applying insecticidal soap or introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also help to manage their population.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests in Melastoma fasciculare Sw. is to promptly identify the issue and take appropriate measures to control their population. Proper cultural practices such as good sanitation and regular monitoring can also help prevent and manage disease and pest problems.
