Melastoma affinis is native to rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests from southern Queensland to northern New South Wales. It grows in open forests, rainforest margins and along streams.
 
BOTANICAL NAME
Melastoma affinis
 
COMMON NAME
Blue Tongue
 
FAMILY
Melastomataceae
 
FLOWERING
Height: 1-2.5 m.                    Width: 1-2m
 
Habit: Upright, leafy shrub
 
Flower colour:  beautiful purple flowers.
 
Flowering season: Spring to Summer, form in cluster
 
Uses: Edible berries, pollinator attracting
 
Conditions: Full sun to part shade. Best flowering in sun. Tolerates light shade.
 
Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained, moist soil with organicmatter. Thrives in loam, sandy loamor rainforest soils.
 
Water requirement: Keep evenly moist during establishment. Once established.moderately, drought tolerant.
 
Frost tolerance: Light frost tolerantonce established. Protect young plants in colder areas.