Description
Melastoma malabathricum, commonly known as Native Lasiandra, is a spectacular Australian native shrub with large, vibrant purple to mauve flowers. If you want a native plant that brings a real splash of colour to the garden, this is one worth considering. Growing to approximately 2–3m high × 2m wide, it forms a bushy shrub with attractive hairy foliage and arching branches. The large flowers can reach around 5–7cm across and may range from pink and mauve through to deep purple depending on the plant. The flowers are especially valuable in a wildlife garden. Native Lasiandra is visited by insects including native bees, while the colourful fruits can provide food for fruit-eating birds. It can also act as a host plant for native butterflies. Australian Bush Tucker – Edible Yes – the ripe fruit is edible. The small fruits contain reddish to purple flesh and can be eaten when ripe. As with any bush-tucker plant, only correctly identified and properly ripened fruit should be consumed. The fruit makes this an interesting choice for a garden that combines ornamental planting with Australian bush-food species. Growing Melastoma malabathricum Native Lasiandra performs best in a sunny to partly shaded position with good soil moisture. It is particularly suited to subtropical gardens and can be useful as an informal screen or feature shrub. Give it enough room to develop naturally and maintain good soil moisture during establishment. Mulching around the root zone will help maintain more consistent moisture through warmer weather. Its combination of large purple flowers, edible fruit and wildlife value makes it much more than simply an ornamental shrub. Plant Details Botanical name: Melastoma malabathricum Common name: Native Lasiandra Mature height: Approximately 2–3m Mature width: Approximately 2m Flowers: Pink, mauve or purple Position: Sun to part shade Soil: Moist, well-drained soil Wildlife: Native bees, insects, butterflies and fruit-eating birds Australian Bush Tucker: Yes – ripe fruit Best uses: Feature shrub, screening, wildlife garden and native food garden
