This Melastome popped up in a tank of Ecuadorian Marcgravias and grew from seed. It’s about 2 years old now and stands 4″ tall. The leaves are broad but not very sturdy. After a year of growth, it was looking great, but then gradually the older leaves began to brown and rot off. With some monthly dilute fertilizer, it has bounced back and is growing again.
On a few occasions I have tried importing Melastomes from Ecuador, they have done very poorly. Either arriving black and rotted or arriving wilty and never recuperating, the ten or so species I’ve tried have mostly all died. This one is a relief after so many failed attempts, and a bit of hope that if they arrive in good health, or as seeds, in normal terrarium conditions they will do well.
