Family: Melastomataceae

This genus of about 60 species of small shrubs is native to semi-tropical regions of many coun­tries, including Africa, Australia and India. The majority of the species have slender, veined leaves and prominent flowers that vary from pink and violet to a rich, purplish red. The genus is very similar in appearance to Tibouchina, but with smaller leaves and flow­ers. Osbeckias are not readily available and are generally seen only seen in botanical gardens.

Species

O. stellata is one of the cultivated species, found over a wide area from India to China. It is an upright to spreading shrub to 1.8 m (6 ft), with oval, deep green leaves which have conspicuous veins. Throughout summer it produces loose clusters of shallow, bowl-shaped flowers in shades of purple, rosy lilac, pink, or sometimes even white.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics or subtropics, grow osbeckias in a warm greenhouse or con­servatory, in pots of acid, soil-based potting compost. Provide good light, but shade the plants from direct, strong sun. Prune in late winter to restrict size, if necessary. Propagate from seed or semi-ripe cuttings, with bottom heat for both.

Climate

Tropical or subtropical.